OH Leuven vs Union Saint-Gilloise Prediction, Match Preview, Saturday, 24 January

OH Leuven will face Union Saint-Gilloise in an intriguing clash in the First Division A this Saturday, 24 January. The match is set to take place at the King Power at Den Dreef, providing a familiar backdrop for OH Leuven as they look to leverage their home advantage. Both teams are eager to secure valuable points in the league standings, making this encounter a significant one for their respective campaigns.

Union Saint-Gilloise, known for their competitive edge, will be keen to challenge OH Leuven on their home turf. With both teams having shown strong performances in recent matches, this fixture promises to be a closely contested battle. Fans and bettors alike will be watching closely to see which team can capitalise on this opportunity to climb the First Division A table.

OH Leuven vs Union Saint-Gilloise Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Union Saint-Gilloise to Win	1.65

Union Saint-Gilloise look set for another dominant performance against OH Leuven. Given their current form, superior standings, and a strong head-to-head record, our recommended betting tip is to back Union Saint-Gilloise for an outright win. The visitors have been consistent and efficient both offensively and defensively, making them likely to come out on top.

• Union Saint-Gilloise have not lost to OH Leuven in their last four away matches in the competition, showcasing their dominance in head-to-head encounters.
• Union Saint-Gilloise concede only 0.6 goals on average per match this season, highlighting their defensive solidity.
• OH Leuven have struggled this season, conceding 1.5 goals on average per match, and they are currently missing key players due to injuries.

Betting Odds

Union Saint-Gilloise are heading into this match as clear favourites with odds of 1.68, reflecting their strong form in the league. OH Leuven, on the other hand, are seen as underdogs with odds of 4.87, but playing at home could offer them a slight edge.

Betting Tip	Odds
OH Leuven to win	4.87
Draw	3.64
Union Saint-Gilloise to win	1.68

For those looking at alternative markets, the draw is priced at 3.64, which might appeal to punters expecting a closely contested affair. Given the attacking prowess of Union Saint-Gilloise, the over 2.5 goals market could also be worth considering.

OH Leuven Analysis & Recent Performance

OH Leuven’s recent form has been less than ideal, with the team managing just one win in their last five matches. This sequence includes two losses, two draws, and a solitary victory against Standard Liège. Their performance statistics highlight a struggle in front of goal, averaging just 0.40 goals per game during this period while conceding 1.00 goal on average. This has contributed to their current position in the lower half of the league standings.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
St.Truiden	OH Leuven	1 – 0 (Loss)	Jupiler League	18 Jan 2026
Preussen Münster	OH Leuven	2 – 1 (Loss)	Club Friendlies	8 Jan 2026
RAAL La Louvière	OH Leuven	0 – 0 (Draw)	Jupiler League	27 Dec 2025
OH Leuven	Cercle Brugge	0 – 2 (Loss)	Jupiler League	21 Dec 2025
Standard Liège	OH Leuven	0 – 1 (Win)	Jupiler League	12 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
Despite their difficulties, OH Leuven’s defence has shown glimpses of solidity, securing two clean sheets in their last five outings. However, their attacking output remains a concern, with goals proving hard to come by. Sory Kaba, their top scorer this season with four goals, has been a bright spot in an otherwise challenging campaign. The team’s home form reflects similar struggles, with a win ratio of just 20% at the King Power at Den Dreef.

Performance Insights:

• LLDLW

OH Leuven have been inconsistent, as evidenced by their winless streaks and sporadic scoring. Their tactical approach has not consistently translated into effective performances, particularly at home, where they have struggled to capitalise on opportunities. The team will need to improve their offensive efficiency and maintain defensive discipline if they are to climb the league table.

OH Leuven Suspensions & Injuries

The suspension of Birger Verstraete due to an accumulation of yellow cards is a significant blow to OH Leuven’s midfield. Verstraete has been a key component in maintaining the team’s balance and defensive solidity. His absence will likely force Felice Mazzù to rely on Wouter George to fill the gap, potentially altering the midfield dynamics. The team might need to adopt a more conservative approach to compensate for the loss of Verstraete’s tenacity and experience.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Birger Verstraete	Yellow cards	1	Unknown

In terms of injuries, OH Leuven face uncertainty with Bryang Kayo and Christ Souanga, both listed as doubtful. Kayo’s knock injury and Souanga’s unspecified issue could limit Mazzù’s options, particularly in the midfield and defence. If neither is fit to play, OH Leuven may have to depend on less experienced squad members, which could affect their tactical flexibility and depth against Union Saint-Gilloise.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Bryang Kayo	Knock	Doubtful
Christ Souanga	Unknown	Doubtful

The potential unavailability of these players may influence betting markets, as OH Leuven’s depth is tested. With key players missing, the team’s ability to maintain their usual tempo and defensive resilience could be compromised, making this match a challenging prospect.

OH Leuven Key Players

Sory Kaba stands out as OH Leuven’s top scorer with 4 goals this season, showcasing his poacher’s instinct and ability to exploit defensive gaps. His presence in the forward line is crucial, as he not only finishes chances but also creates space for his attacking partners. Kaba’s interplay with Mathieu Maertens, who operates effectively as a forward, adds a dynamic edge to Leuven’s attacking strategy.

In midfield, the likes of Óscar Gil and Takahiro Akimoto play pivotal roles. Gil’s vision and passing range enable him to dictate the tempo of the game, while Akimoto’s energy and box-to-box capabilities provide much-needed balance. Defensively, the responsibility falls on the shoulders of Ewoud Pletinckx and Noë Dussenne, who must organise the backline and neutralise Union Saint-Gilloise’s attacking threats.

Expected lineup for OH Leuven

• Goalkeeper: Tobe Leysen
• Defence: Ewoud Pletinckx, Noë Dussenne, Roggerio Nyakossi
• Midfield: Óscar Gil, Takahiro Akimoto, Wouter George, Thibaud Verlinden
• Forward: Mathieu Maertens, Sory Kaba, Youssef Maziz

The tactical impact of these key players cannot be overstated. Kaba’s scoring prowess and Maertens’ creativity can unlock even the most resolute defences, while Gil’s midfield control and Akimoto’s dynamism ensure a robust presence in the centre of the park. Defensively, Pletinckx and Dussenne’s coordination will be vital to maintaining a solid foundation and securing a positive result for OH Leuven.

OH Leuven Tactics and Formation

OH Leuven Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Unspecified, likely to adapt based on player availability
• Key Forward: Sory Kaba
• Midfield Dynamics: Birger Verstraete and Wouter George
• Defensive Concerns: Inconsistency, only two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Struggles in maintaining possession, yet effective in counterattacks.

OH Leuven’s recent performances have shown a tendency to struggle with maintaining possession, averaging only 51% in their last match against St.Truiden. With a likely flexible formation, the team may adjust tactically to compensate for any missing players, such as the absence of a clear goalkeeper in the lineup.

In attack, Sory Kaba remains a pivotal figure, having scored four goals this season. Supported by creative forwards like Youssef Maziz and Mathieu Maertens, Leuven’s offensive play often relies on quick counters and exploiting defensive gaps.

Defensively, OH Leuven face challenges, having conceded in three of their last five games. The defensive line-up, including Ewoud Pletinckx and Noë Dussenne, must tighten to improve their clean sheet ratio, which currently stands at 40% in recent matches. Coach Felice Mazzù will need to address these defensive lapses to enhance their standing in the league.

Union Saint-Gilloise Analysis & Recent Performance

Union Saint-Gilloise have been showcasing robust form, currently sitting at the top of the league standings with 45 points. In their last five encounters, they have registered three wins, one draw, and a single loss. Notably, their recent triumphs include a 1-0 victory over KV Mechelen and a 2-0 win against FCV Dender EH. However, their recent fixture against Bayern Munich in the Champions League ended in a 0-2 defeat, marking their defensive vulnerabilities against stronger opposition.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Bayern Munich	Union Saint-Gilloise	2 – 0 (Loss)	Champions League	21 Jan 2026
Union Saint-Gilloise	KV Mechelen	1 – 0 (Win)	Jupiler League	17 Jan 2026
FCV Dender EH	Union Saint-Gilloise	0 – 2 (Win)	Cup	14 Jan 2026
Cercle Bruges	Union Saint-Gilloise	1 – 1 (Draw)	Jupiler League	26 Dec 2025
Union Saint-Gilloise	Zulte Waregem	2 – 0 (Win)	Jupiler League	20 Dec 2025

Recent Form:
Offensively, Union Saint-Gilloise have averaged 1.20 goals per match over their last five games, while their defensive performances have been commendable, boasting three clean sheets with an average of 0.60 goals conceded per game. Despite this, their away performance has shown some inconsistency, having secured only one win in their last five away fixtures, complemented by two draws and two losses.

Union Saint-Gilloise’s tactical approach emphasises solid defensive organisation and efficient counter-attacking play. Their top scorer, Promise David, has been pivotal, contributing nine goals thus far. However, their challenge remains in converting more of their opportunities, especially in away games, where their win ratio stands at a modest 20%. Overall, Union Saint-Gilloise remain a formidable force, but their away form could be an area for potential improvement as they look to maintain their league supremacy.

• LWWDW

Union Saint-Gilloise Suspensions & Injuries

Union Saint-Gilloise face a challenging situation with multiple suspensions affecting their lineup. Key players Anan Khalaili, Ross Sykes, and Kevin Mac Allister are all suspended due to yellow card accumulations. This significantly impacts their defensive and midfield strength, as these players have been regular starters in recent matches. The absence of Sykes and Mac Allister will particularly require defensive reshuffling, possibly bringing in less experienced players to fill these crucial roles.

Player	Suspension	Matches Remaining	Expected Return
Anan Khalaili	Yellow cards	1	Unknown
Ross Sykes	Yellow cards	1	Unknown
Kevin Mac Allister	Yellow cards	1	Unknown

The injury to Kevin Rodríguez further complicates matters, with his return not expected until mid-February 2026. This limits Union Saint-Gilloise’s options in attack, as Rodríguez has been a versatile presence for the team. His absence may prompt a tactical adjustment, potentially leading to a more conservative approach to maintain balance without their usual attacking depth.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Kevin Rodríguez	Unknown	Mid February 2026

These absences could heavily influence the tactical approach of Union Saint-Gilloise’s coach, David Hubert. A potential shift to a more defensive setup might be on the cards, aiming to mitigate the impact of these unavailability issues. For bettors, this situation suggests an increased likelihood of a low-scoring affair, as Union Saint-Gilloise may struggle to maintain their usual fluid attacking play.

Union Saint-Gilloise Key Players

Union Saint-Gilloise’s attacking prowess is spearheaded by Promise David, their top scorer with 9 goals this season. David’s ability to find the back of the net through his sharp finishing and positional awareness makes him a constant threat to any defence. His partnership with Raúl Florucz in the forward line is vital, as Florucz’s creativity and passing can unlock defences, providing David with the opportunities to score.

In midfield, Mathias Rasmussen and Adem Zorgane are pivotal for Union Saint-Gilloise’s control of the game. Rasmussen’s vision and passing range allow him to dictate the tempo and transition the ball effectively from defence to attack, while Zorgane’s energy and ball-winning skills provide a strong defensive cover. This midfield duo’s interplay is crucial for Union Saint-Gilloise’s tactical balance.

Expected lineup for Union Saint-Gilloise

• Goalkeeper: Kjell Scherpen
• Defence: Louis Patris, Fedde Leysen, Mamadou Thierno Barry
• Midfield: Mathias Rasmussen, Kamiel van de Perre, Adem Zorgane, Guilherme Smith
• Forward: Raúl Florucz, Promise David, Anouar Ait El Hadj

Defensively, the trio of Louis Patris, Fedde Leysen, and Mamadou Thierno Barry are key to maintaining a solid backline. Patris’s leadership and Leysen’s aerial ability will be instrumental in dealing with OH Leuven’s attacking threats. As goalkeeper, Kjell Scherpen’s shot-stopping and command of the penalty area provide Union Saint-Gilloise with a reliable last line of defence. Together, these players contribute significantly to the team’s overall tactical solidity and resilience.

Union Saint-Gilloise Tactics and Formation

Union Saint-Gilloise Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 3-5-2
• Key Forward: Promise David
• Midfield Engine: Adem Zorgane and Anouar Ait El Hadj
• Defensive Solidity: Three clean sheets in the last five matches
• Notable Strategy: High pressing and wing-back utilisation.

Union Saint-Gilloise are likely to deploy a 3-5-2 formation, emphasising a robust midfield and attacking wing-backs. This setup allows for dynamic transitions between defence and attack, with Anouar Ait El Hadj and Adem Zorgane pivotal in controlling the midfield tempo.

Defensively, the trio of Kevin Mac Allister, Christian Burgess, and Ross Sykes forms a solid backline, which has been crucial in securing three clean sheets in recent fixtures. Wing-backs such as Kamiel van de Perre and Guilherme Smith provide additional defensive cover as well as width in attacking phases.

Offensively, Promise David, the top scorer, leads the line, supported by creative midfielders who can exploit spaces left by opponents. The team’s strategy often involves high pressing, aiming to regain possession quickly and launch swift counterattacks, leveraging the speed and agility of their forward players.

OH Leuven vs Union Saint-Gilloise Head-to-Head Record

In their head-to-head record, Union Saint-Gilloise have the upper hand with 15 wins compared to OH Leuven’s 9, alongside 7 draws. The last time these two met, Union Saint-Gilloise thrashed OH Leuven 5-0 at home in the Belgian Pro League. This result highlights Union’s recent dominance in their encounters.

The last time OH Leuven hosted Union Saint-Gilloise, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, showing that Leuven can hold their own at home. However, Union’s away form has been solid, as seen in their 2-0 victory at Leuven in March 2024.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Union Saint-Gilloise	OH Leuven	5 – 0	Belgian Pro League	2025-08-03
Union Saint-Gilloise	OH Leuven	1 – 0	Belgian Pro League	2025-01-19
OH Leuven	Union Saint-Gilloise	1 – 1	Belgian Pro League	2024-11-24
OH Leuven	Union Saint-Gilloise	0 – 2	Belgian Pro League	2024-03-02
Union Saint-Gilloise	OH Leuven	5 – 1	Belgian Pro League	2023-08-12