Club Brugge can earn 11 points in the Champions League League Phase starting today, according to football analysts. Marc Degryse and Toby Alderweireld see the Belgian champions winning against Aston Villa, Lens and Bodø/Glimt, but rule out an upset against Liverpool or Inter Milan.
The predictions were published by HLN Voetbal. Frank Boeckx is slightly more optimistic, forecasting 12 points for the blue-black squad. The analysts expect draws against PSV, Stuttgart and Napoli. A draw against Aston Villa is also seen as a realistic outcome. Club Brugge enters the European campaign from a strong position domestically, sitting third in the Jupiler Pro League with 12 points from five matches. Nicky Hayen's team has scored nine goals and conceded only two, for a goal difference of +7.
The home fixtures against Aston Villa, Lens and Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt are viewed as the prime opportunities for full points. These are the games where the points must be secured to reach the ambitious target of 11 points. Against absolute top clubs like Liverpool and reigning champion Inter, a defeat is considered likely. The away match at Napoli is tipped as a draw, as are the home game against PSV and the trip to Stuttgart. Club Brugge has ample experience at this level, with this season marking their tenth appearance in the League Phase. Last year the club earned 10 points, making a rise to 11 or 12 points a logical next step.
The focus is now on Europe, but the club remains active in the national league. In third place with 12 points, they trail leaders KAA Gent by just three points. The recent form of WLWWW shows a team in good rhythm, despite some reported disappointing training results. The next Pro League assignment is a home match against Royal Antwerp FC on September 13. Antwerp currently sits tenth in the table. Fans can check the full standings and fixtures schedule for more context.
The club invested significantly in the squad this summer. One of the key signings is Jan Virgili, secured for a fee of 12 million euros on a contract until 2027. Also, Club Brugge resisted substantial bids for Romeo Vermant, turning down an offer of up to 20 million euros just before the derby. On the injury front, attention is on Joel Ordonez, who missed two days of training due to a physical issue. His availability for the coming weeks is important. The youth academy also delivered good news, with a final place in the Youth League. The current squad of Club Brugge blends experience with young talent.
The coming weeks will reveal if the analysts' predictions come true. The first objective is a good result in the Champions League, followed by the important home match against Antwerp this weekend. Club Brugge has the quality to play a significant role in both competitions.
