Brussels Derby Ignites: Union Saint-Gilloise Hosts Anderlecht in Early Season Top-Table Clash
The Belgian Jupiler Pro League is set for a captivating Brussels derby as Union Saint-Gilloise host rivals Anderlecht at Stade Joseph Marien. With both teams enjoying a strong start to the 2025/26 season, this encounter is not only a battle for city pride but also a crucial early-season clash that could shape the top of the league table, promising a high-quality spectacle for fans.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
This match marks the latest chapter in one of Belgian football's most historic and passionate rivalries – the Brussels Derby. As two of the capital's prominent clubs, clashes between Union Saint-Gilloise and Anderlecht are always highly anticipated. Entering the 2025/26 season, both teams have shown strong competitive form. Union Saint-Gilloise currently sits second in the league with 11 points from 5 matches, boasting an unbeaten record of 3 wins and 2 draws. [10, 17, 18, 49] Anderlecht is close behind in third place with 9 points from 4 matches, having secured 3 wins and 1 loss. [10, 17, 38, 49] This fixture is therefore a crucial early-season showdown that could significantly impact the league standings, with the victor poised to strengthen their challenge at the top and establish an early advantage.
Recent Form
Union Saint-Gilloise has started the 2025/26 season in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their first five league matches with a record of three wins and two draws, including one goalless draw. [10, 17, 18] They also boast an impressive home record, being undefeated in their last nine matches at Stade Joseph Marien, highlighting their strong home advantage. [10] Anderlecht has also had a strong league start, securing three wins in their first four matches, including a 2-0 away victory against Dender. [10, 17, 38] However, a 0-2 loss to AEK Athens in a Europa Conference League qualifier and a 2-3 league defeat to Zulte Waregem suggest potential challenges for the team when balancing multiple competitions. [10, 11]
Key Players & Injury News
Union Saint-Gilloise's attack will rely on key forwards such as Promise David, who was their top scorer in the 2024/25 season, and Kevin Rodríguez, currently leading the team's scoring charts in the 2025/26 league campaign. [15, 17, 35] Midfield maestro Charles Vanhoutte and defensive stalwarts Christian Burgess and goalkeeper Anthony Moris are also indispensable players for the squad. [35, 46] Regarding injuries, G. François was expected to return in mid-August, while K. Van De Perre and Henok Teklab are sidelined with back injuries with no definite return date. [20, 27] For Anderlecht, Kasper Dolberg, the team's top scorer in the 2024/25 season, and Thorgan Hazard, currently leading their scoring in the 2025/26 league, will be crucial offensive threats. [17, 25, 26] Experienced defender Jan Vertonghen and key midfielder Mario Stroeykens are also vital to the team. [21, 26] Notably, defender Jan-Carlo Simić and midfielder I. Camara are expected to return from injuries in early September, making their availability for this derby uncertain. [8]