Zulte Waregem vs FCV Dender EH Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 7 February

Zulte Waregem will host FCV Dender EH in an intriguing Belgian First Division A clash at the Elindus Arena on Saturday, 7 February. This fixture promises to be a significant encounter as both teams look to improve their position in the league table. Zulte Waregem, playing at home, will aim to take advantage of familiar surroundings and secure a vital win.

FCV Dender EH, meanwhile, will be eager to challenge their hosts and potentially upset the odds. The Elindus Arena will set the stage for what could be a closely contested battle between these Belgian sides. With both teams having plenty to play for, this match is set to offer plenty of competitive action.

Zulte Waregem vs FCV Dender EH Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Zulte Waregem to Win	2.21

Zulte Waregem are clear favourites for this match, coming off a strong away win and solid home performances. FCV Dender EH are struggling with injuries and form, which shifts the advantage firmly towards Zulte Waregem. Given these factors, backing Zulte Waregem to win is our recommended betting tip.

• Zulte Waregem have scored in 74% of their matches this season, demonstrating a consistent attacking threat.
• FCV Dender EH’s injuries to key players such as Kobe Cools and Dion Sahi significantly weaken their squad.
• Zulte Waregem have a strong recent record against Dender, remaining unbeaten in their last three head-to-head encounters.

Betting Odds

Zulte Waregem return to their home ground at the Elindus Arena as favourites, with odds of 2.21 reflecting confidence in their ability to secure a win. Meanwhile, FCV Dender EH are priced at 3.13, and should not be underestimated, especially given their potential to surprise in away fixtures.

Betting Tip	Odds
Zulte Waregem to win	2.21
Draw	3.31
FCV Dender EH to win	3.13

The draw is priced at 3.31, indicating that bookmakers expect a closely contested match. Bettors might find value in the over 2.5 goals market, given both teams’ attacking strengths in recent games.

Zulte Waregem Analysis & Past Performance

Zulte Waregem’s recent form has been a concern, with only one victory in their last five matches. Their most recent home outing ended in a 0-1 defeat to Westerlo, marking their fourth loss in five games. This pattern is reflected in their overall season, with six wins, nine losses, and eight draws, placing them 12th in the league with 26 points.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Zulte Waregem	Westerlo	0 – 1 (Loss)	Jupiler League	31 Jan 2026
Club Brugge	Zulte Waregem	4 – 3 (Loss)	Jupiler League	24 Jan 2026
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

Recent Form:

• LLWLL

Over the past five matches, Zulte Waregem have averaged 1.60 goals scored per game while conceding 2.20, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities. The absence of clean sheets in these matches underscores their defensive struggles. Offensively, they have managed to score in four of these five games, with Jeppe Erenbjerg standing out as a key attacking force, having scored eight goals this season. However, inconsistency and a lack of defensive solidity remain significant challenges for the team.

Zulte Waregem Suspensions & Injuries

Zulte Waregem approach their match against FCV Dender EH with a full squad, as there are no injuries or suspensions affecting the team. This rare situation gives coach Sven Vandenbroeck the luxury of selecting from his entire roster, potentially allowing for a more dynamic and flexible approach.

With all players available, Zulte Waregem can maintain their preferred tactical formation without the need for makeshift adjustments. This could be crucial for maintaining defensive solidity and attacking fluidity, especially considering their depth in midfield and options up front.

The lack of unavailable players enhances Zulte Waregem’s chances of a positive result, as they can deploy their strongest lineup and make strategic in-game substitutions without fitness concerns. This could be a significant advantage, particularly in the latter stages of the match.

From a betting perspective, the complete squad availability for Zulte Waregem could influence the odds in their favour. Bettors should consider the potential impact of a fully fit team able to execute their game plan effectively against FCV Dender EH.

Zulte Waregem Key Players

Jeppe Erenbjerg, Zulte Waregem’s top scorer with 8 goals, is a pivotal figure in their lineup. Operating from midfield, Erenbjerg’s ability to penetrate defences and contribute to the scoreline makes him a dual threat. His vision and goal-scoring prowess will be crucial against FCV Dender EH, as he looks to orchestrate play and exploit any defensive weaknesses.

Marley Aké and Anosike Ementa are other key players who could significantly influence the match. Aké, positioned in midfield, provides creativity and pace, linking up effectively with the forwards. Ementa, leading the attack, will be vital in converting chances created by the midfield, using his physical presence and goal-scoring instincts to challenge the opposition’s defence.

Expected lineup for Zulte Waregem:

• Goalkeeper: Brent Gabriel
• Defenders: Anton Tanghe, Jakob Kiilerich, Wilguens Paugain
• Midfielders: Benoît Nyssen, Jeppe Erenbjerg, Thomas Claes, Yannick Cappelle, Joseph Opoku, Marley Aké
• Forward: Anosike Ementa

Zulte Waregem Tactics and Formation

Zulte Waregem Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Anosike Ementa
• Midfield Core: Jeppe Erenbjerg and Tochukwu Nnadi
• Defensive Concerns: No clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: High possession play with frequent shots on goal.

Zulte Waregem typically line up in a 4-3-3 formation, a strategy designed to maximise their attacking potential while maintaining a structured midfield. Anosike Ementa leads the line, supported by the creative play of midfielders Jeppe Erenbjerg and Tochukwu Nnadi, who are crucial in both setting the tempo and transitioning the team from defence to attack.

Defensively, Zulte Waregem have struggled, failing to keep a clean sheet in their last five matches. The defensive line, featuring Anton Tanghe and Wilguens Paugain, has been under pressure, often exposed due to the team’s aggressive attacking approach. This has resulted in conceding an average of two goals per game.

Offensively, Zulte Waregem focus on maintaining high possession, as evidenced by their 56% possession in the recent match against Westerlo. With 19 shots taken in that game, their approach relies heavily on creating numerous scoring opportunities, though converting these chances remains a challenge.

FCV Dender EH Analysis & Past Performance

FCV Dender EH’s recent form has been mixed, with the team securing just one win in their last five matches. Their recent results include a 1-2 defeat against Genk and a notable 1-0 victory over Royal Antwerp, underlining their inconsistency in the league.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FCV Dender EH	Genk	1 – 2 (Loss)	Jupiler League	1 Feb 2026
Anderlecht	FCV Dender EH	0 – 0 (Draw)	Jupiler League	25 Jan 2026
FCV Dender EH	Royal Antwerp	1 – 0 (Win)	Jupiler League	18 Jan 2026
FCV Dender EH	Union St.Gilloise	0 – 2 (Loss)	Cup	14 Jan 2026
KV Mechelen	FCV Dender EH	1 – 1 (Draw)	Jupiler League	27 Dec 2025

Recent Form:

• LDWLD

Analysing their recent statistics, FCV Dender EH have averaged 0.60 goals per game while conceding 1.00 in their last five matches. Despite these figures, they have managed to keep two clean sheets, indicating some defensive resilience. Their away form shows some promise, with two wins, two draws, and only one loss in their last five away fixtures, translating to a 40% win rate on the road. However, their overall season performance has been less impressive, as they sit near the bottom of the league in 16th place with just 17 points from 23 games.

FCV Dender EH Suspensions & Injuries

FCV Dender EH face a difficult situation with several key players doubtful due to injury. Michael Verrips, a crucial presence in goal, is struggling with a shoulder injury. His absence could disrupt defensive organisation, potentially putting pressure on Gauthier Gallon, who is likely to step in as the starting goalkeeper.

The midfield is also affected, with Benjamin Fredrick and Ragnar Oratmangoen both doubtful due to knee injuries. Their potential absence would force Hayk Milkon to reconsider his midfield strategy, perhaps relying more on the likes of Marsoni Sambu and Malcolm Viltard to maintain control and creativity in the centre of the park.

Ryan Adewusi’s unknown injury status further complicates FCV Dender EH’s tactical setup. His versatility has been an asset, and without him, the team might need to rely more heavily on their attacking trio of David Toshevski, Roman Kvet, and Bruny Nsimba to compensate for any defensive frailties.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Michael Verrips	Shoulder injury	Doubtful
Benjamin Fredrick	Knee injury	Doubtful
Ragnar Oratmangoen	Knee injury	Doubtful
Ryan Adewusi	Unknown	Doubtful

FCV Dender EH Key Players

Leading the line for FCV Dender EH is their top scorer, Bruny Nsimba, who has netted 7 goals this season. Nsimba’s sharp eye for goal and ability to find space in the box make him a constant threat to any defence. His partnership with fellow forward David Toshevski is crucial, as Toshevski’s ability to hold up play and distribute complements Nsimba’s goal-scoring prowess.

In midfield, Noah Mbamba and Malcolm Viltard are key figures. Mbamba’s defensive abilities provide a solid shield in front of the defence, while Viltard’s creativity and vision are vital for orchestrating attacks. Their control in midfield can dictate the tempo and provide the necessary support for the forwards. At the back, Luc Marijnissen and Kobe Cools are dependable, with Marijnissen’s aerial strength and Cools’ tackling ability forming a strong barrier against opposing attacks.

Expected lineup for FCV Dender EH:

• Goalkeeper: Gauthier Gallon
• Defence: Luc Marijnissen, Kobe Cools, Bryan Gonçalves
• Midfield: Marsoni Sambu, Noah Mbamba, Malcolm Viltard, Fabio Ferraro, Roman Kvet
• Forward: David Toshevski, Bruny Nsimba

FCV Dender EH Tactics and Formation

FCV Dender EH Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Bruny Nsimba
• Midfield Pivot: Noah Mbamba and Malcolm Viltard
• Defensive Strength: Consistency needed, with two clean sheets in last five games
• Notable Strategy: Emphasis on possession and wing play

FCV Dender EH typically line up in a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on maintaining possession and utilising the flanks. Noah Mbamba and Malcolm Viltard form the core of the midfield, tasked with transitioning play from defence to attack. Their ability to hold and distribute the ball will be crucial in maintaining control against Zulte Waregem.

Defensively, FCV Dender EH need to improve their consistency, having kept only two clean sheets in their last five matches. The backline, led by Luc Marijnissen and Kobe Cools, must tighten up to avoid conceding unnecessary goals, especially given their recent struggles against Genk.

Offensively, Bruny Nsimba remains a key figure, leading the attack with support from wingers Roman Kvet and David Toshevski. Their approach often revolves around exploiting space on the wings, aiming to create scoring opportunities through quick crosses and incisive passing.

Zulte Waregem vs FCV Dender EH Head-to-Head Record

In the head-to-head record between Zulte Waregem and FCV Dender EH, both teams have claimed three wins each, with two matches ending in a draw. Their last encounter was an entertaining 2-2 draw at Dender’s ground in the Belgian Pro League, highlighting how evenly matched these sides have been historically.

The last time Zulte Waregem hosted FCV Dender EH, they secured a 2-1 victory in a Cup match in October 2024. Zulte Waregem have shown resilience at home, which could be a key factor in their upcoming clash.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
FCV Dender EH	Zulte Waregem	2 – 2	Belgian Pro League	2025-11-07
Zulte Waregem	FCV Dender EH	2 – 1	Cup	2024-10-29
FCV Dender EH	Zulte Waregem	1 – 4	Challenger Pro League	2024-04-13
Zulte Waregem	FCV Dender EH	1 – 1	Challenger Pro League	2023-09-01
Zulte Waregem	FCV Dender EH	1 – 0	Jupiler League	2009-02-14