Pro League: Hard times for Genk and Charleroi, a Battle of Flanders in store and Antwerp roars back

For this penultimate JPL matchday before the break, the Pro League offers a full slate of exciting clashes to keep fans on the edge of their seats all weekend long.

Charleroi – KRC Genk

With the Carolos flirting with relegation and Racing still unable to crack the top 6, this match could plunge one team into crisis as the other emerges with its head above water.

Both teams have also recently changed coaches, albeit for completely different reasons. After having prevented Rik de Mil from heading to Union, Charleroi had no choice but to let him leave for Gent. Thorsten Fink, meanwhile, was sacked from his position as coach of KRC Genk for failing to produce results.

That leaves both sides forced to start over, even as the season is well underway…

Club Brugge – KAA Gent

The Battle of Flanders looks very different this season. While past meetings featured two confident teams waging all-out war, this time both teams are struggling with a total loss of momentum, with new coaches both in desperate need of points.

The focal point of this match is clearly Ivan Leko. After leaving Standard for Gent this summer, the Croatian coach abandoned ship as Gent began taking on water and hopped on the Brugge train after Nicky Hayen was fired. Though disappointing for Gent fans, his decision was hardly surprising. Since joining Standard, Leko had made no secret of his ambition to play for the title. So it was clear that if he ever had the opportunity to return to Club Brugge, where he won the championship and the Super Cup in 2018, he would jump at the chance.

Will Leko make life miserable for his former club?

Antwerp – RSC Anderlecht

Antwerp have come roaring back! After a catastrophic start to their season, Antwerp hired a new coach, managed three consecutive wins and now find themselves one point away from the top 6.

Meanwhile, the Mauves are looking in excellent shape as well, scoring four wins in their last five matches. Will Antwerp be able to slow their progress?

Betting on the 19th matchday of the Pro League

Don’t forget to submit your predictions for the Circus Challenge, where there’s CASH up for grabs every week!