Club Brugge vs Zulte Waregem Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 24 January

Club Brugge will host Zulte Waregem in a crucial First Division A clash at the Jan Breydel Stadion on Saturday, 24 January. This fixture is pivotal for both teams as they look to strengthen their positions in the league table. Club Brugge, renowned for their strong home performances, will be aiming to make the most of their home advantage against Zulte Waregem.

Zulte Waregem, meanwhile, will be determined to challenge the hosts and secure valuable points on the road. The Jan Breydel Stadion sets the stage for this encounter, with both sides striving to make an impact in the First Division A. As the competition heats up, this match promises to deliver an engaging contest between two ambitious Belgian teams.

Club Brugge vs Zulte Waregem Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Club Brugge to Win	1.38

Given the current form and historical head-to-head results, backing Club Brugge to win is a solid betting tip. Club Brugge have shown impressive consistency at home and possess a significant advantage over a struggling Zulte Waregem side.

• Club Brugge have scored in 90% of their home matches this season, underlining their attacking strength.
• Zulte Waregem have failed to win in their last four games, highlighting their poor form.
• Club Brugge’s recent head-to-head dominance, including a 1-0 away victory earlier this season, boosts confidence.

Betting Odds

Club Brugge are clear favourites for this match, with bookmakers offering odds of 1.38 for a home win. Zulte Waregem, by contrast, are the underdogs at 6.67, making them a tempting option for those seeking an upset.

Betting Tip	Odds
Club Brugge to win	1.38
Draw	5.05
Zulte Waregem to win	6.67

The draw is priced at 5.05, suggesting that while it’s not the most likely outcome, it could appeal to punters expecting a tighter contest. Given Club Brugge’s strong home form, betting on a high-scoring game could also be a shrewd move.

Club Brugge Analysis & Recent Performance

Club Brugge have experienced mixed form in recent matches, recording two wins, two losses, and a draw in their last five outings. Notably, their recent 4-1 away victory at Kairat Almaty in the Champions League showcased their attacking prowess, with Romeo Vermant continuing to impress, contributing significantly to their tally of 16 goals across these fixtures.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Kairat Almaty	Club Brugge	1 – 4 (Win)	Champions League	20 Jan 2026
Club Brugge	RAAL La Louviere	2 – 3 (Loss)	Jupiler League	16 Jan 2026
Sporting Charleroi	Club Brugge	2 – 0 (Loss)	Cup	13 Jan 2026
Sturm Graz	Club Brugge	2 – 2 (Draw)	Club Friendlies	8 Jan 2026
Genk	Club Brugge	3 – 5 (Win)	Jupiler League	26 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• WLLDW

Club Brugge’s attacking statistics are impressive, averaging 3.20 goals per game in their last five matches. However, defensive frailties remain, as they have conceded an average of 2.20 goals per game in this period and have not managed a clean sheet. This imbalance is evident in their overall team dynamics—potent in attack but vulnerable at the back. At home, their record is less consistent, with just 2 wins from 5, highlighting the need for improved defensive organisation at Jan Breydel Stadion.

Club Brugge Suspensions & Injuries

Club Brugge are facing a challenging situation with several key players sidelined due to injury. The absence of Lynnt Audoor, Raphael Onyedika, and Jorne Spileers could significantly impact the team’s midfield and defensive solidity. Onyedika’s muscle fatigue and Spileers’ unspecified injury, both expected to return around early February, leave gaps that Zulte Waregem may look to exploit.

Christos Tzolis, suffering from a back injury, and Dani van den Heuvel, dealing with a knock, are also expected to be unavailable for the upcoming fixture. These absences may force Club Brugge to rely on younger or less experienced squad members, potentially affecting their attacking output and goalkeeping options.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Lynnt Audoor	Muscle injury	Doubtful
Raphael Onyedika	Fatigue	About 1-2 weeks
Jorne Spileers	Unknown	Early February 2026
Dani van den Heuvel	Knock	About 1-2 weeks
Christos Tzolis	Back injury	Early February 2026

Without Raphael Onyedika, Club Brugge may need to adjust their midfield strategy, possibly bringing in Carlos Forbs or Aleksandar Stankovic to fill the void. The defensive line, already stretched, will require players like Joel Ordonez and Brandon Mechele to step up and maintain composure against Zulte Waregem’s attacks.

These injuries could have significant betting implications, as Club Brugge may not perform at their usual level, potentially impacting their odds. The team’s depth will be tested, and any tactical adjustments by coach Ivan Leko will be crucial in maintaining their competitive edge in the First Division A.

Club Brugge Key Players

Club Brugge’s attacking threat will depend heavily on Romeo Vermant, their leading scorer with 7 goals this season. Vermant’s role in midfield is crucial not only for his goal-scoring ability but also for orchestrating play and linking up with the forwards. His knack for finding space and timing his runs could be decisive against Zulte Waregem’s defence.

In the forward line, Hans Vanaken stands out as a vital playmaker. Renowned for his vision and passing accuracy, Vanaken provides the creative spark needed to unlock defences. Alongside him, Mamadou Diakhon and Ludovit Reis add dynamism and pace, making Club Brugge’s attack versatile and unpredictable. Defensively, Brandon Mechele anchors the backline with his leadership and aerial strength, essential for maintaining solidity.

Expected lineup for Club Brugge:

• Goalkeeper: Nordin Jackers
• Defenders: Kyriani Sabbe, Joel Ordonez, Brandon Mechele, Joaquin Seys
• Midfielders: Hugo Vetlesen, Aleksandar Stankovic, Romeo Vermant
• Forwards: Mamadou Diakhon, Ludovit Reis, Hans Vanaken

Club Brugge Tactics and Formation

Club Brugge Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Romeo Vermant
• Midfield Engine: Hans Vanaken and Hugo Vetlesen
• Defensive Strategy: High pressing with a focus on quick ball recovery
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on width and pace in attacking transitions.

Club Brugge’s tactical approach is based on a 4-3-3 formation that maximises their attacking potential while maintaining control in midfield. Hans Vanaken and Hugo Vetlesen are central to their midfield setup, providing both creative support and defensive cover. The trio in midfield ensures a balanced approach, capable of quick transitions and maintaining possession.

Defensively, the team employs high pressing to disrupt opponents and regain possession swiftly. With Brandon Mechele anchoring the defence, Club Brugge aim to limit opposition chances, though recent matches have exposed some vulnerabilities as they have conceded in each of their last five games.

In attack, Club Brugge utilise the pace of wingers Carlos Forbs and Mamadou Diakhon to stretch defences and create space for striker Romeo Vermant, who leads the team with seven goals. This strategy has proven effective, as evidenced by their average of 2.6 goals per match in recent fixtures.

Zulte Waregem Analysis & Recent Performance

Zulte Waregem’s recent form has been inconsistent, with their last five matches producing one win, one draw, and three defeats. Their most recent victory came against Genk in a narrow 2-1 home win, offering a glimpse of their potential when in form. However, away from home, they have struggled, failing to secure a win in their last five away games, with four losses and a single draw, highlighting a significant gap in performance.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Zulte Waregem	Genk	2 – 1 (Win)	Jupiler League	17 Jan 2026
FC Sion	Zulte Waregem	3 – 2 (Loss)	Club Friendlies	9 Jan 2026
Royal Antwerp	Zulte Waregem	2 – 1 (Loss)	Jupiler League	27 Dec 2025
Union St.Gilloise	Zulte Waregem	2 – 0 (Loss)	Jupiler League	20 Dec 2025
Zulte Waregem	RAAL La Louviere	2 – 2 (Draw)	Jupiler League	13 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• WLLLD

Over their last five games, Zulte Waregem have averaged 1.20 goals scored per match but conceded 1.60 on average. The team has not kept a clean sheet in this period, indicating defensive weaknesses. Offensively, Jeppe Erenbjerg has been a standout, contributing significantly to their attack with 8 goals this season. However, a win ratio of just 20% in recent fixtures underlines the need for greater consistency, especially away from home where their defensive frailties are most apparent.

Zulte Waregem Suspensions & Injuries

Zulte Waregem’s preparations for the match against Club Brugge are hampered by the potential absence of Joseph Opoku, whose injury status is currently listed as doubtful. The uncertainty over his availability may force coach Sven Vandenbroeck to reconsider his midfield strategy, particularly given Opoku’s role in stabilising the team’s core.

If Opoku is unable to feature, Benoît Nyssen, who has been involved in recent lineups, may be called upon to step up. Nyssen’s versatility in midfield could be crucial for maintaining Zulte Waregem’s tactical balance. However, a lack of depth could pose problems if Opoku’s absence continues.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Joseph Opoku	Unknown	Doubtful

With no suspensions affecting the squad, Zulte Waregem are expected to rely on their full roster, barring Opoku’s injury. This should allow them to stick to their preferred formation and playing style, though some tweaks may be needed to accommodate Nyssen’s inclusion. The betting markets may see Opoku’s absence as a minor setback, but the team’s overall resilience will be tested against a strong Club Brugge side.

Zulte Waregem Key Players

Zulte Waregem’s attacking efforts will be led by their top scorer, Jeppe Erenbjerg, who has netted an impressive 8 goals this season. Erenbjerg’s sharp instincts in front of goal make him a constant threat, capable of exploiting any defensive weaknesses. His ability to find space and finish clinically will be crucial against Club Brugge.

Another key figure in Zulte Waregem’s lineup is Anosike Ementa, who leads the line as the lone forward. Ementa’s physical presence and aerial ability can unsettle defences, providing a focal point for the team’s attacks. In midfield, Enrique Lofolomo’s playmaking role will be vital in orchestrating moves and maintaining possession under pressure. His vision and passing range could unlock opportunities for Erenbjerg and Ementa.

Expected lineup for Zulte Waregem:

• Goalkeeper: Brent Gabriel
• Defence: Benoît Nyssen, Benoit De Jaegere, Jakob Kiilerich, Lukas Willen
• Midfield: Marley Ake, Enrique Lofolomo, Thomas Claes, Emran Soglo, Abdoulaye Traoré
• Forward: Anosike Ementa

Defensively, the pairing of Benoît Nyssen and Benoit De Jaegere will be tasked with containing Club Brugge’s attacking threats. Nyssen’s composure and De Jaegere’s tackling ability are key strengths that Zulte Waregem will need to maintain defensive solidity. The influence of these key players will play a significant role in the team’s ability to withstand Club Brugge’s offensive pressure.

Zulte Waregem Tactics and Formation

Zulte Waregem Tactical Breakdown:

• Previous Formation: 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Anosike Ementa
• Midfield Engine: Jeppe Erenbjerg
• Defensive Vulnerability: No clean sheets in last five games
• Notable Strategy: High pressing with reliance on wing-backs.

Zulte Waregem have recently utilised a 3-5-2 formation, focusing on width and pressing high up the pitch. This tactical setup provides flexibility in midfield, with Jeppe Erenbjerg playing a pivotal role as both creator and scorer, as shown by his eight goals this season.

Defensively, the team has struggled to keep clean sheets, conceding an average of 1.60 goals per game in their last five matches. The three-man defence, featuring players such as Jakob Kiilerich Rask and Benoit De Jaegere, requires strong coordination to avoid lapses that can leave them exposed.

In attack, the partnership of Anosike Ementa and Marley Ake up front offers a blend of physicality and pace. Wing-backs like Emran Soglo are crucial for providing width and supporting both defensive and attacking phases, making their transitions vital to Zulte Waregem’s strategy.

Club Brugge vs Zulte Waregem Head-to-Head Record

Club Brugge have dominated the head-to-head record against Zulte Waregem, boasting 31 wins to Zulte’s 10, with 10 matches ending in a draw. The most recent encounter saw Club Brugge secure a 1-0 victory away in the Belgian Pro League, underlining their strong form against Zulte Waregem.

The last time these sides met at the Jan Breydel Stadion in the league was in August 2022, ending in a 1-1 draw. However, Brugge’s home advantage is usually significant, as demonstrated by their 4-0 win over Zulte in their most recent home cup fixture in December 2023.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Zulte Waregem	Club Brugge	0 – 1	Belgian Pro League	2025-08-16
Club Brugge	Zulte Waregem	4 – 0	Cup	2023-12-06
Club Brugge	Zulte Waregem	0 – 1	Friendly Match	2023-07-01
Zulte Waregem	Club Brugge	1 – 2	Belgian Pro League	2023-01-29
Club Brugge	Zulte Waregem	1 – 1	Belgian Pro League	2022-08-05