Jupiler Pro League Showdown: Anderlecht Visits Westerlo in Crucial Clash for Top Spot Ambitions and Relegation Avoidance
Matchday 17 of the Jupiler Pro League sees Westerlo host perennial contenders Anderlecht. Third-placed Anderlecht are pushing for the league title, while 13th-placed Westerlo desperately need points to steer clear of the relegation zone. This fixture holds significant weight for both teams' seasonal aspirations and promises to be a gripping encounter.
Match Background & Qualification Scenarios
The 2025-26 Jupiler Pro League season is entering a crucial phase as Westerlo prepares to host Anderlecht at their home ground, Het Kuipje. The Belgian top-tier league comprises 16 teams for the current season, featuring a format that combines a regular season with subsequent playoffs. The top six teams after the regular season proceed to the championship playoffs, while teams at the bottom face relegation risks. Anderlecht, one of Belgium's most successful clubs with a record 34 league titles, is undoubtedly aiming for the league championship and European qualification this season. As of the 2025/2026 season, Anderlecht has shown strong performance, currently sitting in third place with 31 points from 16 matches, boasting a 56% win rate. In contrast, Westerlo has had a less impressive season, accumulating only 17 points from 16 matches and ranking 13th, with a 25% win rate. Their immediate priority is to gather as many points as possible to secure their place in the top flight and avoid the relegation playoff spots. This match presents a prime opportunity for title-contending Anderlecht to solidify their position near the top, while for Westerlo, it's a vital step towards escaping the threat of relegation.
Recent Form
Anderlecht has demonstrated very good overall form during the 2025/2026 season. In their last 5 matches, they have secured 4 wins and 1 loss (L W W W W), while their away form has been 1 win, 2 draws, and 2 losses (L D D L W). Their home performance has been particularly strong, with 5 consecutive wins in their last 5 home games. So far in the league, Anderlecht has scored a total of 23 goals. In contrast, Westerlo's overall form this season has been poor. Over their last 5 matches, they have recorded 2 draws and 3 losses (D L L D D). Their home form is considered average, while their away form is deemed poor. Westerlo has scored a total of 21 goals in the league this season.
Key Players & Injury News
Anderlecht boasts several influential players. Danish striker Kasper Dolberg was a standout performer in the 2024-25 season, finishing as the team's top scorer with 18 league goals and 24 goals across all competitions. Other key players to watch include Yari Verschaeren, Thorgan Hazard, Mario Stroeykens, and Anders Dreyer. Regarding injury news, Anderlecht's midfielder Marco Kana is sidelined for six weeks due to an ankle injury, a significant blow confirmed on December 3, 2025. For Westerlo, Iranian forward Allahyar Sayyadmanesh and Croatian forward Matija Frigan were prominent in the 2024-25 season, each scoring 6 league goals and serving as crucial attacking players. Other important contributors include Serhiy Sydorchuk and Bryan Reynolds. As of now, there is no new significant injury information reported for Westerlo.