Club Brugge suffered a defeat on Saturday evening in their preparation for the new season. The league champions lost 1-2 to Stade Rennes in a friendly match in France. It was the third consecutive friendly loss for Club Brugge, who previously lost to Feyenoord and Heerenveen. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in Jupiler Pro League, 38 pts, 22W-3D-7L from 32 games, recent form WWWWD.
What happened in the match?
Club Brugge started with a strong team, including debutant Yann Sommer. The Swiss goalkeeper was tested early and had to concede after 30 minutes. Esteban Lepaul put Rennes ahead. After the break, Club Brugge equalized through Kyriani Sabbe, who placed the ball nicely in the top corner. Nicolo Tresoldi later missed a penalty, and Issa Soumaré scored the winning goal for Rennes in the final minutes.
What does this mean for Club Brugge?
The loss to Rennes is a setback for Club Brugge, who are looking for form ahead of the Supercup against Union next week. The league champions have now lost three friendly matches in a row and will need to work on their defense. Manager Ivan Leko is still without internationals Hans Vanaken, Brandon Mechele, Joaquin Seys, and Joel Ordoñez, who will only join next week.
How is Union performing?
Union, on the other hand, had a good preparation for the Supercup. The cup winners won 2-1 against Lille OSC, who finished third in Ligue 1 last season. Union started strongly and took the lead through Louis Patris. Gaëtan Perrin equalized for Lille, but Besfort Zeneli scored the winning goal. Union has now gained confidence ahead of the Supercup against Club Brugge.
What is next on the schedule?
Club Brugge will play Union next Friday in the Supercup. It is the first official match of the new season. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in Jupiler Pro League, 38 pts, 22W-3D-7L from 32 games, recent form WWWWD. Goals this season: 65 scored, 39 conceded (+26 goal difference). Title race: 1 point behind leaders Union St. Gilloise. Next fixture: vs Antwerp (away, 2027-01-30).
