Anderlecht vs Zulte Waregem - Jupiler Pro League

The Jupiler Pro League returns to the home ground on September 19, 2026, where Anderlecht and Zulte Waregem will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Anderson was pointing out that City had held the whip hand in this fixture "for as long as I've known", which isn't exactly inaccurate but will also fan the flames ahead of Sunday's Old Trafford showdown.

The standings add context to the occasion — Anderlecht occupying 7th, Zulte Waregem perched in 5th — and the gap between them shapes the narrative. Anderlecht have held their own of late, WWWWW in their last five reflecting a steady win rate of 50%. The visitors have been picking up results steadily, LWDWD over their last five with a campaign win rate of 50%. Their respective approaches this season have differed noticeably, and the tactical contrast could prove telling. The promoted side have plans to strengthen in every position, with midfield the priority.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Anderlecht and Zulte Waregem have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. No wonder the skipper had talked of a 'new Aston Villa' in the pre-match press conference with what seemed like genuine excitement.

The fixture features no shortage of talent, and the league's top marksman M. Ubandoma — 5 goals this term — will be one to watch. The wide areas will be a key battleground, with full-backs and wingers on either side capable of swinging the contest one way or the other. Several forward have also been under consideration but any potential arrival is linked to Marcus Rashford's future, which looks set to be in Manchester.

Predicting an outright winner is no easy task given how little separates the two sides on paper. On balance, Zulte Waregem may just have enough to take all three points. A 1-2 away win would not be a shock. With the standings tight and form on the line, this is a fixture neither side will want to lose. Harry Kane is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or.