Anderlecht vs Antwerp: prediction, head-to-head and probable line-ups – 5 February 2026
One of the Belgian Cup semi-final clashes will take place on Thursday at Lotto Park in Brussels, where Anderlecht will host Antwerp. I’m offering a bet on the outcome of this encounter with promising odds for success.
Match preview
Anderlecht are navigating turbulent times, alternating league failures with cup triumphs. The team slipped out of the championship group after their fifth defeat in seven rounds, but at the same time confidently dispatched Gent and Genk in cup fixtures. The sacking of Besnik Hasi was a logical move, and now Edward Still is in charge of delivering results. The cup remains their only chance to salvage the season and restore the fans’ trust.
Problems abound, especially on the left flank after Augustinsson’s injury and Angulo’s departure. The addition of Diarra is unlikely to fully offset these losses. However, Anderlecht still boast an important streak – they haven’t conceded at home to Antwerp in seven consecutive matches. This boosts their confidence ahead of the tie, especially considering last year’s victory at this same stage.
Antwerp delivered a strong performance against Cercle Brugge, their emphatic 4-0 victory a timely reminder of their quality. However, their league position is far from ideal – they’re outside the championship play-off six and fighting for survival in the play-offs. Their road to the cup semi-final hasn’t been paved with top-tier opponents, but it’s been tough: extra time against La Louvière and penalties versus Sint-Truiden show just how hard-fought their progress has been.
The club failed to secure the reinforcements they needed in winter, and of the new arrivals only Rein van Helden featured – and he went down injured in his debut. Once again, everything hinges on Janssen and Kerk, who have been productive but lack sufficient support. Antwerp have been inconsistent away from home – the team struggle to impose themselves on the road in play-off matches, and once more, they’ll be counting on the return leg at home.
Probable line-ups
- Anderlecht: Coosemans, Diarra, Kana, Hey, Sardella, Saliba, De Cat, Llansana, Hazard, Bertaccini, Sikan
- Antwerp: Nodzawa, Zeno Van den Bosch, Kouyaté, Tsunashima, Somers, Pratt, Verstraeten, Foulon, Scott, Vandeplas, Janssen
Match facts and head-to-head
- Anderlecht have kept clean sheets at home against Antwerp for seven matches in a row.
- In the first leg of last season’s cup semi-final, Anderlecht beat Antwerp 1-0.
- Four of the last six head-to-head meetings ended in draws.
Prediction
Anderlecht are enduring a serious crisis in the league, but continue to play inspired football in the cup. Home advantage, fresh managerial impetus and a strong record against Antwerp in Brussels all point towards a narrow win for the hosts. As in last season, the visitors will have to pin their hopes on the return leg.
