The Park is preparing for the arrival of Standard. Their visit always creates tension in the lead-up to the match. “Regardless of position or situation, a Clasico is always something special”, Besnik Hasi confirmed during his press conference. Watch his full press conference ahead of RSC Anderlecht - Standard, now on Mauve TV.
For Mario Stroeykens, the Clasico probably comes too early. “It will be tight for him to be ready on Sunday. He’ll be back after the break.” Otherwise, the coach can rely on a fully fit squad. “Everyone trained this week. There are some doubts about Cvetković after he took a knock against Club NXT. After the final training tomorrow, we’ll decide whether he will be part of the squad.”
After the match in Leuven, Hasi wants to see a reaction from his team. “We are still disappointed with the draw against OHL, where we were absolutely not good and created too few chances. This week, we’ve had time to focus on our offensive points.”
Hasi has faced several crucial duels with purple-and-white against Standard, both as a player and as (assistant) coach. “A Clasico is always special, regardless of the club’s position or situation”. Especially the two test matches from 2009 remain vivid in the coach’s memory. “Those games were very intense. On the football side, it was always war, but it was fun”.
In recent years, unfortunately, there has sometimes been conflict off the field as well. For the first time in a long while, this Sunday’s Clasico will be played with visiting supporters. “I’m certainly in favor. In such a match, supporters want to create an atmosphere - the rivalry between the clubs exists not only on the pitch. As long as everything stays within limits, it’s fine”.
Kick-off this Sunday for the Clasico is at 13:30 in a sold-out Lotto Park.