Club Brugge v Anderlecht preview: Brugge and Anderlecht dreaming of silverware ahead of the cup final | OneFootball

Ten years on from the 2015 Croky Cup final meeting between these two sides, Les Mauves will be aiming to cause an upset at the King Baudouin Stadium, and win the cup for the first time since 2008. Captain Jan Vertonghen is optimistic of his side’s chances. As reported by DH Sports, he says, “I think Bruges are the favourites, given their results and performances in the league and in Europe. But we’re approaching the final with a lot of confidence […] We have a good selection and players who can make the difference.”

Speaking to Sporza, Anderlecht coach Bensik Hasi adds, “I think we can approach the final in a relaxed manner.

“We have found some stability and confidence in the team in recent weeks. Some guys are also performing at a higher level. Those things give us a good feeling.” Nieuwsblad reports that, alongside Vertonghen, Mario Stroeykens and Adrelyson have rejoined training and could make the matchday squad.

Having lost their last five matches against Club Brugge, Les Mauves will be wary of the dominance their opponents have wielded over them in recent years. Brugge are embroiled in a tense title race but must turn their attention to the Croky Cup, a trophy they have not won since defeating Anderlecht in that tense 2015 final. Following their emphatic 4-1 win over Gent on Thursday, coach Nicky Hayen may have a starting line up dilemma due to the form of young striker Romeo Vermant. Scoring two against Gent, he has put himself into the limelight and will be giving his manager a headache going into the final.

As reported by Nieuwsblad, Captain Hans Vanaken has spoken about his desire to win the Croky Cup. “Every year the goal is to win the double. I’ve lost the final twice, let’s hope the third time is the good time. You could say that the circle is complete if I win the cup with Club, but on the other hand we also have to perform again next season.”

Hayen adds: “Every prize you can win is important. We can crown a good season with at least one prize, they can brighten up their lesser season. We will have to be at our best, because we are playing against an Anderlecht with confidence. They have a lot of quality, but we have to start from our own strength and focus on ourselves. We have played good football on the pitch in recent months, and we have to do the same tomorrow.”

Kick off is at 18:00 CET.

GBENeFN | Samuel Fabre