Standard vs Charleroi: probable lineups, H2H and prediction — May 23, 2026
In the final round of the Belgian Jupiler League, Standard will face Charleroi. The match will be held in Liège on Saturday, May 23, with kickoff at 20:45 Central European Time. I am offering a bet on the winner of this clash.
Standard on the verge of a return to European competitions
The team from Liège has found their form exactly when it mattered most. In recent rounds, Standard have looked well-organized and have started to get results thanks to a much more reliable defense.
Recently, they overcame Leuven with a 2-1 win, and before that, picked up crucial points against Genk and Antwerp. In their latest outings, Standard have not only been consistently collecting points but have also become significantly more effective in attack.
The team is especially confident at home. The support from the stands remains a major factor for the Liège club, and in decisive matches, the pressure on opponents becomes even more intense.
Victory in the season finale will guarantee Standard a mid-table finish and a spot in the Conference League next season. With this in mind, Evrard's squad will be highly motivated, unlike their opponents.
Charleroi out of the European race
Charleroi also approach this match in decent form. The team went on a solid run but ultimately couldn’t keep their hopes alive for a successful end to the season.
In their last five matches, Charleroi picked up several important wins, and their run of results kept them in the hunt for European football almost until the very end. The team’s form looks fairly stable: victories alternate with draws, and there have been few defeats recently.
However, Charleroi have been far less convincing away from home. The team often struggled against opponents who like to dominate possession and dictate play.
All of Kohnen's men’s efforts were undone by a home defeat to Westerlo last weekend. After that, Charleroi drew with Leuven and dropped out of the European race. Now, the team will have to settle for a 9th or 10th place finish.
Probable lineups
- Standard: Epolo, Mortensen, Hautekiet, Bates, Dirks, Fossi, Karamoko, Ilaimaharitra, Said, Abid, Nkada.
- Charleroi: Kone, Nzita, Keita, Ousu, Bloom, Titraoui, Camara, Pflücke, Kerkhof, Guiagon, Scheidler.
Interesting facts and H2H
- Standard are unbeaten in five straight matches.
- The Liège club have won just two home games in 2026.
- Charleroi have failed to win in their last two matches.
- Charleroi are unbeaten in their last three away games.
- In Liège, Charleroi have beaten Standard only once in the last 18 years.
Prediction
This match carries far greater significance for Standard, making the hosts the clear favorites. Home advantage and a stronger finish to the season give them a slight edge. Charleroi are capable of causing problems on the counter, but Standard look the more balanced side. My bet is on the home win with a 0 handicap.
