On Friday, coach David Hubert previewed Sunday’s match in Liège, a true classic in Belgian football. The Anderlecht coach is well aware of its significance. “A Clasico remains a Clasico,” he began. “The match means a lot to both the players and the fans.”
Hubert referred to the current situation of both clubs. “It’s important for us to respond. With a win, we can secure our spot in the Champions’ Play-Offs, while Standard is still fully in the race. There’s a lot at stake. Combined with the historic rivalry between the two clubs, all the ingredients are there for an intense and exciting match.”
Stroeykens and Edozie fit again
Before the press conference, it was already confirmed that Hubert can count on Mario Stroeykens and Samuel Edozie this weekend. Both players have fully resumed training this week and are available for the trip to Sclessin. However, the Clasico comes too soon for Majeed Ashimeru.
Kasper Dolberg, Yari Verschaeren, and Tristan Degreef are still not match-fit. After further medical examinations and given their positive progress in recent days, their workload will gradually increase in the coming weeks in preparation for the play-offs. “We want Dolberg to be fully fit for the first play-off match,” the coach explained. For Yari Verschaeren and Tristan Degreef, an earlier return to action is not ruled out.
Patience as the key at Sclessin
According to the coach, Standard’s main strength lies in their solid organization. “They concede very few goals—especially at home—and they work incredibly hard, making it difficult for opponents to find space to play,” Hubert noted. “We’ll need to be patient and pick our moments to destabilize them.”
Anderlecht will also need to be wary of Standard’s quick transitions. “They don’t need many chances to score. Their counter attacks are dangerous and often lead to goals.” Whether Standard will adopt this approach on Sunday remains uncertain. “I expect them to press a bit higher than usual. However, their structured approach has proven to be effective.”
Kickoff at Sclessin on Sunday, March 2, at 6:30 PM.
