Belgian domestic football returned with cup action on Tuesday, as Antwerp, Mechelen, Kortrijk, Union St Gilloise and holders Gent made it through to the quarter finals. Tonight, Genk v Anderlecht is the headline game as 6 more teams look to make it through.
Club Brugge v Sint Truiden
Despite dominating the league over the past three seasons, Club Brugge have not won the cup since the 2015 final against Anderlecht. Since then they have made two finals, losing in 2016 to Standard Liege before their 2020 defeat to Antwerp. With Genk well ahead in the league, Club may see the cup as their most likely chance of domestic success this season. Sint-Truiden on the other hand last made the final in 2003, where they lost to La Louviere 3-1. The Canaries have never won the cup, and have certainly been given a tough draw. If they can make it through, they will certainly fancy their chances of beating anyone.
Deinze v Zulte Waregem
On paper Zulte Waregem would be the favourites, however, Mbaye Leye’s side are facing an injury crisis at the moment. The head coach has already said he is struggling to work out a starting XI and that youngsters will get a chance. This gives Deinze a great chance of making the quarter finals, which would be some achievement for the only non top flight side left in the competition. The side recovered from a poor start to the season, but have lost their last two games against promotion chasing SK Beveren and Lommel. This should be a close game given the circumstances.
Genk v Anderlecht
Clearly the standout tie when the draw was made, Genk are the best team in Belgium at the moment and it will be interesting to see if they want to go for both the league and the cup. The side won the 2021 edition, beating Standard Liege 2-1. That was their fifth cup win since their first in 1998. Anderlecht on the other hand have been poor this season, but last years finalists would love a cup win having not won the trophy since 2008. Gent beat them on penalties last year, and new head coach Brian Riemer would certainly like to start his time in charge with a trophy.
GBeNeFNÂ |Â Ben Jackson
