FCV Dender EH vs Club Brugge Prediction & Match Preview (14 December)

In the upcoming First Division A clash, FCV Dender EH will host Club Brugge at the Van Roy Stadium on Sunday, 14 December. This fixture is an intriguing encounter, as FCV Dender EH face the formidable challenge of taking on one of Belgium’s top teams, Club Brugge. With both sides competing in the Belgian league, this match represents a significant test for the home team.

Club Brugge, renowned for their strong league performances, will look to assert their dominance over FCV Dender EH. Meanwhile, the hosts will hope to make the most of their home advantage at Van Roy Stadium to secure a positive result. The outcome could have implications for the First Division A standings, making this a must-watch for fans and bettors alike.

FCV Dender EH vs Club Brugge Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Both Teams to Score (BTTS) – Yes	1.7

Given the recent form and key statistics, our recommended betting tip is to back both teams to score. Dender’s strong home form and Club Brugge’s potent attack, despite their inconsistencies, make this a solid bet.

• FCV Dender EH are unbeaten in their last five matches, showing their ability to score, especially at home.
• Club Brugge, despite injuries, have a strong attacking presence with Christos Tzolis leading as the top scorer.
• Both teams have shown defensive vulnerabilities, making it likely that both will find the back of the net.

Betting Odds

Club Brugge enter this match as strong favourites, with odds of 1.58 reflecting their superior form and league standing. FCV Dender EH, meanwhile, are clear underdogs at 4.95, which may appeal to those seeking a potential upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
FCV Dender EH to win	4.95
Draw	4.18
Club Brugge to win	1.58

The draw is priced at 4.18, indicating that while Brugge are expected to dominate, a stalemate cannot be ruled out. For those interested in goals markets, given Brugge’s attacking strength, the over 2.5 goals market could offer value.

FCV Dender EH: Analysis & Recent Performance

FCV Dender EH have produced mixed results in recent outings, maintaining an unbeaten streak over their last five games with three wins and two draws. Their recent performances include a notable 3-2 victory over Standard Liège in the Cup, highlighting their ability to perform in knockout scenarios.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
RAAL La Louvière	FCV Dender EH	1 – 2 (Win)	Jupiler League	5 Dec, 2025
FCV Dender EH	Standard Liège	3 – 2 (Win)	Cup	2 Dec, 2025
FCV Dender EH	Westerlo	2 – 2 (Draw)	Jupiler League	29 Nov, 2025
Royal Antwerp	FCV Dender EH	1 – 2 (Win)	Jupiler League	23 Nov, 2025
FCV Dender EH	Zulte Waregem	2 – 2 (Draw)	Jupiler League	7 Nov, 2025

Recent Form:
Offensively, FCV Dender EH have been productive, averaging 2.20 goals per match in their last five fixtures. Bruny Nsimba, their top scorer with five goals, has been instrumental in their attacking threat. However, defensively, they have struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding an average of 1.60 goals per game, indicating a need for defensive improvement. All five of their recent matches have seen both teams score, underlining their defensive vulnerabilities.

Currently sitting 16th in the league, FCV Dender EH’s home form has been less impressive, with no wins in their last five home games—two losses and three draws. They have managed to score in each of these matches, yet their defensive frailties at home, evidenced by a lack of clean sheets, remain a concern. Their league position reflects the need to secure home victories to climb out of the relegation zone.

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FCV Dender EH: Suspensions & Injuries

FCV Dender EH face a potential setback with Moïse Sahi Dion listed as doubtful due to a muscle injury. His absence could impact the team’s attacking options, as Dion has been an influential figure in their forward line. Without him, the coach may need to rely more heavily on Bruny Nsimba and David Toševski to lead the attack.

The tactical impact of Dion’s injury could see FCV Dender EH adjust their formation, perhaps opting for a more conservative approach to compensate for reduced attacking firepower. This may also create opportunities for other squad members to step up, but it will certainly test the team’s depth.

Despite these concerns, FCV Dender EH’s defensive and midfield lines remain intact, with key players such as Guillaume Dietsch and Malcolm Viltard available. This stability at the back may allow the team to maintain a solid defensive structure against Club Brugge, albeit with a more cautious offensive strategy.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Moïse Sahi Dion	Muscle injury	Doubtful

FCV Dender EH: Key Players

FCV Dender EH will rely heavily on their top scorer, Bruny Nsimba, who has netted five goals this season. As a forward, Nsimba’s sharp finishing and positional awareness make him a constant threat to any defence. His ability to exploit spaces and convert chances will be crucial against Club Brugge. Partnered with David Toševski in attack, Nsimba offers a blend of speed and precision that is vital for FCV Dender EH’s attacking ambitions.

In midfield, Roman Kvě t is the playmaker who orchestrates the team’s tempo. His vision and passing accuracy provide the link between defence and attack. Malcolm Viltard, alongside Kvě t, adds defensive solidity and ball-winning ability, ensuring control in central areas. At the back, Luc Marijnissen is a key figure, offering leadership and aerial dominance. His partnership with Nathan Rodes is pivotal for maintaining a strong defensive line.

Expected lineup for FCV Dender EH:

• Goalkeeper: Guillaume Dietsch
• Defence: Marsoni Sambu, Luc Marijnissen, Nathan Rodes, Bryan Gonçalves, Fabio Ferraro
• Midfield: Malcolm Viltard, Noah Mbamba, Roman Kvě t
• Forward: Bruny Nsimba, David Toševski

FCV Dender EH: Tactics & Formation

FCV Dender EH Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 5-3-2
• Key Forward: Bruny Nsimba
• Midfield Pivot: Malcolm Viltard and Noah Mbamba
• Defensive Strategy: Five-man defence to enhance solidity
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on counter-attacks and compact defensive shape.

FCV Dender EH typically employ a 5-3-2 formation, focusing on defensive solidity and rapid transitions. The backline, featuring Marsoni Sambu, Luc Marijnissen, Nathan Rodes, Bryan Gonçalves, and Fabio Ferraro, provides a robust shield in front of goalkeeper Guillaume Dietsch, though clean sheets have been elusive.

In midfield, Malcolm Viltard and Noah Mbamba form a crucial pivot, tasked with breaking up opposition play and initiating counter-attacks. Roman Kvě t adds creativity and vision, aiming to link up with forwards Bruny Nsimba and David Toševski.

Offensively, FCV Dender EH rely heavily on the pace and finishing of Bruny Nsimba, their top scorer with five goals. The team look to exploit spaces left by opponents during transitions, aiming to capitalise on quick breaks.

Club Brugge: Analysis & Recent Performance

Club Brugge have experienced a challenging spell recently, marked by a series of inconsistent performances. In their last five matches, they have secured only one win and suffered four defeats across different competitions. Notably, their recent outings include a 0-3 loss against Arsenal and a 3-2 defeat to St. Truiden, highlighting their struggles against both domestic and European opponents.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Club Brugge	Arsenal	0 – 3 (Loss)	Champions League	10 Dec 2025
St. Truiden	Club Brugge	3 – 2 (Loss)	Jupiler Pro League	6 Dec 2025
OH Leuven	Club Brugge	1 – 2 (Win)	Cup	3 Dec 2025
Club Brugge	Royal Antwerp	0 – 1 (Loss)	Jupiler Pro League	30 Nov 2025
Sporting CP	Club Brugge	3 – 0 (Loss)	Champions League	26 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
The team have struggled to maintain defensive solidity, conceding an average of 2.20 goals per game over their last five fixtures and failing to keep a clean sheet. Offensively, Club Brugge have averaged 0.80 goals per match in this period, underlining their current scoring challenges. Away from home, their form is slightly better, with a win ratio of 40% from their last five away games, suggesting they are more competitive on the road.

Key Players and Tactics:

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Christos Tzolis remains a pivotal figure in attack with five goals this season, but the team’s overall lack of attacking support has been evident. The tactical approach under the current setup has yet to yield consistent results, as seen in their possession statistics, where they have struggled to dominate, averaging below 50% possession in key matches such as the clash against Arsenal. Club Brugge currently sit 3rd in the league with 32 points, indicating that while they are still in a strong position, recent form must improve to maintain their top-tier status.

Club Brugge: Suspensions & Injuries

Club Brugge are facing a challenging situation with several key players dealing with injuries ahead of their clash with FCV Dender EH. Ludovit Reis and Lynnt Audoor are both doubtful due to a shoulder injury and a muscle injury respectively, which could disrupt the team’s midfield dynamics significantly. With Nordin Jackers expected to return only by late December, goalkeeping options are limited, putting extra pressure on Dani van den Heuvel to maintain stability between the posts.

Romeo Vermant’s concussion, although expected to resolve within a few days, could still impact Brugge’s attacking options if he is not deemed fit in time. The absence of these players forces coach Ivan Leko to rely on squad depth, potentially bringing in younger talents or less experienced players to fill the gaps.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Ludovit Reis	Shoulder injury	Doubtful
Lynnt Audoor	Muscle injury	Doubtful
Nordin Jackers	Broken rib	Late December 2025
Romeo Vermant	Concussion	A few days

With these injuries, Club Brugge may need to consider tactical adjustments. The potential absence of Reis and Audoor could lead to a more conservative midfield approach, possibly reinforcing the defensive line-up to compensate for any lack of creativity in the centre. The betting markets may see this as an opportunity for FCV Dender EH to capitalise on a weakened Brugge side, although Brugge’s historical resilience in challenging circumstances should not be underestimated.

Club Brugge: Key Players

Club Brugge’s attacking threat is spearheaded by Christos Tzolis, the team’s top scorer with five goals this season. Tzolis’ ability to consistently find the net makes him a focal point in Brugge’s forward line. His movement and finishing will be crucial against FCV Dender EH, as he looks to exploit any defensive weaknesses.

In midfield, Hans Vanaken remains an influential playmaker, orchestrating play with his vision and passing range. His partnership with Raphael Onyedika adds both defensive security and creative flair, making the midfield a key battleground. Additionally, Hugo Vetlesen, operating in a forward role, offers versatility and creativity, potentially unlocking tight defences.

Expected lineup for Club Brugge:

• Goalkeeper: Dani van den Heuvel
• Defence: Hugo Siquet, Joel Ordonez, Brandon Mechele, Joaquin Seys
• Midfield: Raphael Onyedika, Aleksandar Stankovic, Hans Vanaken
• Forward: Hugo Vetlesen, Christos Tzolis, Nicolo Tresoldi

Defensively, Brandon Mechele’s presence is vital. His leadership and aerial ability provide a solid foundation at the back. Alongside him, Joel Ordonez’s tackling and composure are instrumental in maintaining a strong defensive structure. Collectively, these key players form the backbone of Club Brugge’s tactical approach, aiming to dominate possession and control the tempo.

Club Brugge: Tactics & Formation

Club Brugge Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Key Forward: Nicolo Tresoldi
• Midfield Pivot: Raphael Onyedika and Aleksandar Stankovic
• Defensive Concerns: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and quick counterattacks.

Club Brugge’s 4-2-3-1 formation is designed to strike a balance between attack and defence. The midfield partnership of Raphael Onyedika and Aleksandar Stankovic is crucial, offering both defensive cover and creative outlets. Hans Vanaken’s role as the attacking midfielder is pivotal, linking up with Nicolo Tresoldi up front and wingers Carlos Forbs and Christos Tzolis.

Defensively, the backline featuring Hugo Siquet and Brandon Mechele is under pressure, having failed to keep a clean sheet in their last five outings. The absence of key players through injury, such as Romeo Vermant, has forced tactical adjustments, impacting their defensive solidity.

Offensively, Club Brugge rely on high pressing and rapid transitions, particularly effective in exploiting spaces left by opponents. With Christos Tzolis as the top scorer, their attacking play often hinges on quick interplay and capitalising on defensive lapses.

FCV Dender EH vs Club Brugge: Head-to-Head Record

In their head-to-head record, Club Brugge have dominated FCV Dender EH, winning six of their last nine encounters, with Dender managing just one victory and two matches ending in draws. The most recent clash saw Club Brugge edge a 2-1 win at home in the Belgian Pro League.

The last time Dender hosted Club Brugge, they suffered a 1-2 defeat in August 2024. Historically, Dender have struggled against Brugge, especially at home, where they have only managed to score five goals compared to Brugge’s 16 in total head-to-head meetings.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Club Brugge	FCV Dender EH	2 – 1	Belgian Pro League	2025-11-01
Club Brugge	FCV Dender EH	4 – 1	Belgian Pro League	2024-11-30
FCV Dender EH	Club Brugge	1 – 2	Belgian Pro League	2024-08-25
Club Brugge	FCV Dender EH	0 – 0	Club Friendlies	2024-07-17
FCV Dender EH	Club Brugge	0 – 2	Jupiler League	2009-02-07