Antwerp vs Charleroi - Jupiler Pro League

The history between Antwerp and Charleroi lends this Jupiler Pro League fixture an extra layer of spice, and when the two walk out at the home ground on May 10, 2026, recent encounters will be on everyone's mind. Just as was the case in the previous meeting between the teams in April of last year, when Emery's side gave them such a scare in the Champions League tie at Villa Park, PSG were hanging on at the end.

There is little to choose between Antwerp and Charleroi on paper, and the Jupiler Pro League encounter should reflect that balance. The hosts have mirrored the form of a side still searching for rhythm — LLLDW over their last five, a win rate of 33.33%. The visitors have been a force on their travels, WLWWW in their last five and a campaign win rate of 83.33% that demands respect. Where Antwerp have leaned on defensive discipline, Charleroi have often taken the initiative going forward, and that stylistic difference should shape the contest. Despite his age, and recent injury record, Rodri remains the most complete central midfielder to have operated in the Premier League over the past five years.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Antwerp may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Charleroi have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. His passing display at the World Cup was yet more evidence of his suitability for City and the possession-heavy style Maresca favours.

Game-changers are scattered across both line-ups, and the contest may well be decided by which side's match-winners deliver on the day. Set-piece specialists and aerial threats on both sides mean dead-ball situations could carry outsized importance. One cannot deny that Messi once again starred for Argentina during the tournament despite the team’s extra-time defeat to Spain in the final, where Ferran Torres’s goal secured Spain’s second World Cup.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. With the sides so closely matched, a 2-2 stalemate looks the most likely way this one ends. More than just three points is on the line at the home ground — this is a fixture that could shape the narrative of both clubs' seasons. The club are understood to favour a profile closer to Aurelien Tchouameni or a Premier League‑proven alternative rather than Manu Kone.