Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht Prediction, Match Preview, Sun 21 Dec 2025

Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht Prediction, Match Preview, Sun 21 Dec 2025. Looking ahead to this fascinating clash in the Belgian First Division A, Royal Antwerp will host Anderlecht at the Bosuil Stadion on Sunday, 21 December. This fixture is set to be a significant encounter, with both teams competing for top spots in the league. With home advantage, Royal Antwerp will be eager to make the most of their familiar surroundings to secure a crucial victory.

Anderlecht, meanwhile, will be determined to showcase their strength on the road and challenge Antwerp’s dominance at home. The Bosuil Stadion is set for a competitive battle between these two Belgian giants, each bringing their unique strengths to the pitch. As the season unfolds, every point is vital, making this fixture crucial for both sides in their quest for league success.

Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht Prediction & Betting Tip

Betting Tip	Odds
Anderlecht Double Chance (Win or Draw)	1.6

Given the current form and head-to-head record, our recommended betting tip is to back Anderlecht on the double chance market, covering both the away win and the draw. This approach offers a safety net given their consistent performances against Antwerp and their ability to deliver in crucial matches.

• Anderlecht are unbeaten in their last seven meetings with Antwerp, demonstrating a strong head-to-head advantage.
• Royal Antwerp’s key player absences, including Björn Engels and Geoffry Hairemans, could significantly impact their performance.
• Anderlecht’s recent win over league leaders Union St. Gilloise highlights their ability to perform well in challenging matches.

Betting Odds

In this Belgian First Division A encounter, Anderlecht are slight favourites with odds of 2.22, while Royal Antwerp are priced at 3.1 to claim a home win. The draw is offered at 3.34, reflecting the expectation of a closely contested match.

Betting Tip	Odds
Royal Antwerp to win	3.1
Draw	3.34
Anderlecht to win	2.22

Given the competitive nature of both teams, punters may find value in the over 2.5 goals market, especially considering the attacking talent on display. Both sides have shown they can score, making the ‘both teams to score’ market an appealing option.

Royal Antwerp Analysis & Past Performance

Royal Antwerp approach this fixture in strong form, having secured four wins in their last five matches, including a 2-0 victory over Gent and a 3-0 triumph against Genk. Their only setback was a narrow 2-1 home loss to FCV Dender EH. Notably, the team has maintained impressive attacking output, averaging 2.80 goals per game over this period.

Home Side	Away Side	Score	League	Date
Gent	Royal Antwerp	0 – 2 (Win)	Jupiler Pro League	14 Dec 2025
Royal Antwerp	Genk	3 – 0 (Win)	Jupiler Pro League	7 Dec 2025
Royal Antwerp	St.Truiden	N/A	Cup	3 Dec 2025
Club Brugge	Royal Antwerp	0 – 1 (Win)	Jupiler Pro League	30 Nov 2025
Royal Antwerp	FCV Dender EH	1 – 2 (Loss)	Jupiler Pro League	23 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
Defensively, Royal Antwerp have shown resilience, keeping three clean sheets in their last five outings. They have conceded an average of just 1.60 goals per game, underlining a solid defensive structure. Their home form is particularly impressive, with an 80% win ratio, making the Bosuil Stadion a tough venue for visiting teams.

Key Players & Tactics:
Vincent Janssen stands out as the main attacking threat, having scored four goals and playing a pivotal role in their offensive setup. The team’s tactical approach centres on quick transitions and exploiting opposition defences. Antwerp’s ability to retain possession and capitalise on set-pieces further strengthens their competitive edge.

League Standing & Dynamics:

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Currently 8th in the league with 23 points, Royal Antwerp are classified as a ‘Mid Top’ team, reflecting their competitive status. Their current form and tactical flexibility suggest they remain strong contenders to climb further up the table as the season progresses.

Royal Antwerp Suspensions & Injuries

Royal Antwerp face potential gaps in their defensive and attacking setups, with Björn Engels and Mukhammadali Urinboev both listed as doubtful due to injury. Engels’ hamstring issue may require a reshuffle at the back, with Zeno Van Den Bosch likely to step in. Urinboev’s knock could lead to changes up front, increasing reliance on Gyrano Kerk and Vincent Janssen to maintain attacking momentum.

Geoffry Hairemans remains sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury and is expected back in early April 2026, meaning the midfield must continue to adapt without his creativity. Dennis Praet’s ankle injury, with a return anticipated in early January 2026, further limits midfield depth. These absences may prompt Joseph Oosting to consider tactical adjustments to retain stability and creativity in the middle of the park.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
Björn Engels	Hamstring Injury	Doubtful
Geoffry Hairemans	Cruciate Ligament Injury	Early April 2026
Mukhammadali Urinboev	Knock	Doubtful
Daam Foulon	Knock	Doubtful
Dennis Praet	Ankle Injury	Early January 2026

Daam Foulon’s doubtful status due to a knock could require changes at left-back, possibly involving other defenders such as Kiki Kouyaté or Rosen Bozhinov taking on different roles. The potential unavailability of these players is likely to influence Antwerp’s tactical approach, possibly necessitating a more conservative setup to maintain defensive solidity.

Despite these challenges, Royal Antwerp’s squad depth and the presence of versatile players provide options to cope with injuries. While the betting markets may shift slightly due to these absences, Antwerp remain a formidable side with a strong attacking lineup.

Royal Antwerp Key Players

Vincent Janssen, Royal Antwerp’s top scorer with four goals, is undoubtedly a player to watch. His clinical finishing and movement in the box make him a constant threat. Janssen’s partnership with Gyrano Kerk, known for his pace and dribbling, could be crucial in unlocking Anderlecht’s defence. In midfield, Mauricio Benítez provides a solid foundation with his defensive skills and distribution, ensuring smooth transitions from defence to attack.

The defensive line, featuring Zeno Van Den Bosch and Rosen Bozhinov, will be vital in providing stability and resilience against Anderlecht’s attacking force. Van Den Bosch’s composure and Bozhinov’s tackling will be key to maintaining a solid backline. The interplay between these key players will shape Antwerp’s approach, emphasising a balanced strategy that leverages attacking strengths while maintaining defensive solidity.

Expected lineup for Royal Antwerp:

• Goalkeeper: Taishi Brandon Nozawa
• Defenders: Zeno Van Den Bosch, Kobe Corbanie, Rosen Bozhinov
• Midfielders: Thibo Somers, Mauricio Benítez, Xander Dierckx, Christopher Scott
• Forwards: Gyrano Kerk, Vincent Janssen, Marwan Al-Sahafi

Royal Antwerp Tactics and Formation

Royal Antwerp Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 4-3-3
• Key Forward: Vincent Janssen
• Midfield Engine: Mauricio Benítez
• Defensive Solidity: Three clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Strong on counterattacks and set-pieces.

Royal Antwerp are likely to deploy a 4-3-3 formation, making the most of their attacking talent with Vincent Janssen leading the line. Janssen’s hold-up play and clinical finishing will be vital against Anderlecht. In midfield, Mauricio Benítez’s box-to-box role offers both defensive cover and attacking support.

Defensively, Antwerp’s backline, including Kiki Kouyaté and Zeno Van Den Bosch, has been effective, securing three clean sheets in their last five games. Goalkeeper Taishi Brandon Nozawa’s shot-stopping ability adds further security.

Offensively, Antwerp excel in counter-attacking situations, utilising the speed of wingers like Gyrano Kerk. They are also strong from set-pieces, with players such as Rosen Bozhinov posing an aerial threat—potentially a decisive factor against Anderlecht.

Anderlecht Analysis & Past Performance

Anderlecht have been in fine form recently, recording four wins in their last five matches. This run includes a recent 2-1 home victory over St.Truiden, where they impressed with 21 shots and 55% possession. However, their away form remains a concern, with only two wins in their last five away fixtures, resulting in a 40% win ratio on the road.

Home Team	Away Team	Result	Competition	Date
Anderlecht	St.Truiden	2 – 1 (Win)	Jupiler League	13 Dec 2025
Westerlo	Anderlecht	4 – 0 (Loss)	Jupiler League	7 Dec 2025
Genk	Anderlecht	1 – 1 (Extra time: 0 – 2) (Win)	Cup	4 Dec 2025
Anderlecht	Union St.Gilloise	1 – 0 (Win)	Jupiler League	30 Nov 2025
RAAL La Louviere	Anderlecht	0 – 1 (Win)	Jupiler League	23 Nov 2025

Recent Form:
In their last five games, Anderlecht have averaged 1.40 goals scored and 1.20 conceded per match, reflecting a competitive but somewhat vulnerable defence. They have managed two clean sheets, showing some defensive resilience. Thorgan Hazard, the team’s top scorer with four goals, leads their attack and highlights their potential when in form.

Despite sitting third in the league with 34 points, Anderlecht’s away record is a concern. They have scored 15 goals in their last 10 away games, but a 30% win ratio suggests they need to improve their consistency on the road, especially in tough environments.

Overall, Anderlecht’s tactical approach is balanced, with a focus on possession and creating opportunities. However, their defensive solidity and ability to perform consistently away from home will be key against stronger opponents.

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Anderlecht Suspensions & Injuries

Anderlecht face a challenging situation with several key players unavailable due to injuries and suspensions. The absence of Mario Stroeykens, who is suspended for national team duty, is a significant blow to their midfield. His creativity and link-up play will be missed, and Anderlecht may have to rely on Nathan-Dylan Saliba or Thorgan Hazard to fill the gap, potentially affecting their attacking transitions.

Player	Ban	Matches Left	Expected Return
Mario Stroeykens	National team	2	Unknown

Injuries further complicate Anderlecht’s preparations, with César Huerta’s physical discomfort casting doubt over his availability. Ludwig Augustinsson and Marco Kana are both sidelined with muscle and ankle injuries respectively, with returns expected by late December 2025. The absence of these players limits Anderlecht’s options, especially in defence and midfield, testing their squad depth. Coach Besnik Hasi may need to adjust the team’s formation to compensate, possibly adopting a more conservative approach for solidity.

Player	Injury	Expected Return
César Huerta	Physical discomfort	Doubtful
Ludwig Augustinsson	Muscle injury	Late December 2025
Marco Kana	Ankle injury	Late December 2025

These absences could impact betting markets, as Anderlecht’s reduced depth may influence their performance against Royal Antwerp. Bettors should consider the effect of these missing players when assessing the match. The tactical changes required by these injuries and suspensions could also affect the odds, making Anderlecht’s challenge at Bosuil Stadion even tougher.

Anderlecht Key Players

Leading the line for Anderlecht is top scorer Thorgan Hazard, who has netted four goals so far this season. Hazard’s flair and ability to navigate tight spaces make him a constant threat in the final third. His sharp finishing and creative playmaking are vital for breaking down Royal Antwerp’s defence.

In midfield, Nathan-Dylan Saliba stands out as a key figure, providing the crucial link between defence and attack. His vision and passing accuracy will be essential for maintaining possession and dictating the tempo. At the back, Mihajlo Ilić and Killian Sardella are responsible for keeping the defence organised. Their tackling and anticipation will be vital in coping with Antwerp’s attacking pressure.

Expected lineup for Anderlecht:

• Goalkeeper: Colin Coosemans
• Defence: Mihajlo Ilić, Killian Sardella, Lucas Hey, Yasin Özcan
• Midfield: Adriano Bertaccini, Nathan-Dylan Saliba, Nathan De Cat
• Forward: Thorgan Hazard, Nilson Angulo, Mihajlo Cvetković

The tactical influence of these key players is significant. Hazard’s ability to exploit spaces and create chances is complemented by Saliba’s control in midfield. Meanwhile, Ilić and Sardella’s defensive solidity forms the backbone of Anderlecht’s setup. The interplay between these players will likely be decisive for Anderlecht’s prospects against Royal Antwerp, highlighting their strengths in attack and resilience in defence.

Anderlecht Tactics and Formation

Anderlecht Tactical Breakdown:

• Formation: Expected 4-5-1
• Key Forward: Adriano Bertaccini
• Midfield Pivot: Nathan-Dylan Saliba and Mario Stroeykens
• Defensive Strength: Two clean sheets in the last five games
• Notable Strategy: Focus on possession and patient build-up play.

Anderlecht’s tactical approach under Besnik Hasi tends to favour a 4-5-1 formation, balancing defensive stability with offensive potential. In midfield, Nathan-Dylan Saliba and Mario Stroeykens are likely to play pivotal roles, combining defensive responsibilities with ball progression to support the attack.

Defensively, the quartet of Ilay Camara, Killian Sardella, Lucas Hey, and Moussa N’Diaye will aim to keep a solid backline, having kept two clean sheets recently. Their ability to maintain defensive discipline will be crucial against Royal Antwerp’s attacking threats.

Offensively, Anderlecht build patiently from the back, utilising Thorgan Hazard’s creativity and Nilson Angulo’s pace on the wings to support lone striker Adriano Bertaccini. This setup allows them to control possession, as demonstrated in their recent 2-1 win over St.Truiden, where they enjoyed 55% of the ball.

Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht Head-to-Head Record

In the head-to-head record between Royal Antwerp and Anderlecht, Anderlecht have the clear advantage with 20 wins to Antwerp’s six, along with 12 draws. Their most recent meeting ended goalless at Anderlecht’s ground in the Belgian Pro League, highlighting a tightly contested affair.

The last time Royal Antwerp hosted Anderlecht, they suffered a 1-3 defeat in the Belgian Pro League Playoff Championship Group. Historically, Antwerp have struggled at home against Anderlecht, who have often dominated this fixture.

Home Side	Away Side	Score	League	Date
Anderlecht	Royal Antwerp	0 – 0	Belgian Pro League	2025-09-20
Royal Antwerp	Anderlecht	1 – 3	Belgian Pro League Playoff Championship Group	2025-05-01
Anderlecht	Royal Antwerp	0 – 0	Belgian Pro League Playoff Championship Group	2025-04-20
Anderlecht	Royal Antwerp	2 – 0	Belgian Pro League	2025-02-09
Royal Antwerp	Anderlecht	2 – 2	Cup	2025-02-06