This Belgian Cup semi-final second leg pits Royal Antwerp against RSC Anderlecht at Bosuilstadion in Deurne on February 12, 2026, with kick-off at 19:30 GMT. The match serves as the decisive encounter in the two-legged tie, following Antwerp’s narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg at Anderlecht’s Lotto Park on February 5, 2026. Referee Nathan Verboomen (Belgium) will officiate, known for an average of around 4.2 yellow cards per game in recent Pro League matches and a tendency to issue cards in cup ties.
The aggregate score stands at 1-0 in Antwerp’s favor, putting pressure on Anderlecht to attack while Antwerp can defend their slim lead and exploit counter-attacks on home soil. This high-stakes clash in the Belgian Cup semi-finals promises tactical discipline, with both sides motivated to reach the final amid inconsistent league form.
BETTING TIPS AND MATCH INSIGHTS
As we approach this crucial Belgian Cup encounter, form, injuries, and the first-leg result will heavily influence outcomes. Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht prediction today focuses on Antwerp’s defensive solidity at home combined with Anderlecht’s attacking struggles. Recent results show Antwerp gaining momentum after a strong away win in the first leg, while Anderlecht faces challenges breaking down organized defenses. Bettors should consider the aggregate lead, home advantage, and key absences when evaluating value. The tie remains open, but Antwerp holds the edge entering Bosuilstadion.
Royal Antwerp Results
Royal Antwerp enters this second leg with mixed but improving domestic form, highlighted by their cup progression. The team has shown resilience despite recent league setbacks, particularly strong in away performances that carried over to the first leg. Momentum from earlier wins provides confidence ahead of defending their lead.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | W/L |
| 08.02.26 | JL | KV Mechelen vs Antwerp | 2-0 | L |
| 05.02.26 | CUP | Anderlecht vs Antwerp | 0-1 | W |
| 31.01.26 | JL | Cercle Brugge vs Antwerp | 0-4 | W |
| 25.01.26 | JL | Antwerp vs Charleroi | 0-2 | L |
| 18.01.26 | JL | Dender vs Antwerp | 1-0 | L |
Antwerp has alternated wins and losses recently, but the 4-0 thrashing of Cercle Brugge and the vital 1-0 cup win demonstrate attacking potential when clicking. Defensive vulnerabilities appear in league defeats, yet the clean sheet in the first leg highlights improved organization. Home form at Bosuilstadion will be key to frustrating Anderlecht.
Anderlecht Results
Anderlecht arrives needing goals after a poor run, with losses dominating recent outings. The side struggles for consistency in both league and cup, particularly away from home. Pressure mounts to overturn the deficit against a motivated Antwerp.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | W/L |
| 08.02.26 | JL | Genk vs Anderlecht | 2-0 | L |
| 05.02.26 | CUP | Anderlecht vs Antwerp | 0-1 | L |
| 01.02.26 | JL | St. Liege vs Anderlecht | 2-0 | L |
| 25.01.26 | JL | Anderlecht vs Dender | 0-0 | D |
| 18.01.26 | JL | Gent vs Anderlecht | 4-2 | L |
Anderlecht has managed only one draw in their last five, conceding regularly while failing to score consistently. The first-leg loss exposed attacking frailties, and league defeats compound issues. Overturning the tie requires a sharp improvement in finishing and defensive stability.
Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht Head-to-Head (Last 5 Matches)
Recent encounters between these rivals have been tight, often low-scoring or shared points. Antwerp gained the upper hand in the first leg, but historical balance suggests competitive ties. The aggregate lead adds intrigue to this second leg.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result |
| 05.02.26 | CUP | Anderlecht vs Antwerp | 0-1 |
| 21.12.25 | JL | Antwerp vs Anderlecht | 2-2 |
| 20.09.25 | JL | Anderlecht vs Antwerp | 0-0 |
| 01.05.25 | JL | Antwerp vs Anderlecht | 1-3 |
| 20.04.25 | JL | Anderlecht vs Antwerp | 0-0 |
The last five meetings show three draws and mixed wins, with low goal totals in most. Antwerp’s recent 1-0 edge shifts momentum, but Anderlecht’s past successes indicate they can respond under pressure.
Predicted Lineups for Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht
Here are the predicted starting lineups for this Belgian Cup semi-final second leg on February 12, 2026. These formations are based on recent team selections, tactical preferences, and the need to protect or chase the 1-0 aggregate lead. Note that actual lineups may vary closer to kick-off due to last-minute decisions, but these represent the most likely XI for each side.
Royal Antwerp’s predicted lineup:
Nozawa (GK), Van Den Bosch (DF), Foulon (DF), Tsunashima (DF), Verstraeten (MF), Dierckx (MF), Praet (MF), Somers (MF), Scott (MF), Janssen (FW), Vandeplas (FW).

Anderlecht’s predicted lineup:
Coosemans (GK), Sardella (DF), Hey (DF), Ilic (DF), Maamar (DF), Saliba (MF), Llansana (MF), Verschaeren (MF), Degreef (MF), da Costa (MF), Sikan (FW).

INJURED AND QUESTIONABLE PLAYERS
Injuries and suspensions could play a significant role in this high-stakes cup tie, with both teams dealing with absences that impact defense, midfield creativity, and attacking options. Antwerp’s backline and forward depth are tested, while Anderlecht misses several key pieces in attack and midfield. Below is a summary of the main unavailable or doubtful players:
| Team | Player | Injury/Suspension |
| Royal Antwerp | Björn Engels | Achilles/Heel Problems |
| Royal Antwerp | Geoffry Hairemans | Cruciate Ligament Injury |
| Royal Antwerp | Mauricio Benítez | Hamstring Injury |
| Royal Antwerp | Rein Van Helden | Hamstring Injury |
| Anderlecht | César Huerta | Pubalgia/Surgery Recovery |
| Anderlecht | Mario Stroeykens | Muscle Injury |
| Anderlecht | Ludwig Augustinsson | Hamstring Injury |
| Anderlecht | Killian Sardella | Suspension (from prior match) |
| Anderlecht | Marco Kana | Thigh Tear |
These absences force rotations and could lead to more conservative approaches, particularly for Anderlecht needing to score.
Key Match Insights and Factors to Watch
This semi-final second leg hinges on several critical elements that could decide progression. Both teams battle injuries and form issues, while the aggregate adds tactical nuance. Here are the main points:
- Antwerp defends a 1-0 aggregate lead from the first leg, allowing a cautious approach at home;
- Anderlecht must score at least once without reply to force extra time, pressuring their inconsistent attack;
- Royal Antwerp missing defenders Björn Engels and Rein Van Helden (hamstring), plus forwards Geoffry Hairemans (cruciate) and Mauricio Benitez (hamstring);
- Anderlecht without key attackers like César Huerta (pubalgia), Mario Stroeykens (muscle), Ludwig Augustinsson (hamstring), and defender Killian Sardella (suspension);
- Antwerp’s strong recent away win in the cup boosts confidence, contrasting Anderlecht’s four defeats in five;
- Anderlecht’s poor scoring run (few goals lately) versus Antwerp’s clean-sheet potential at Bosuilstadion;
- Referee Nathan Verboomen averages high cards, potentially influencing a physical battle;
- Home advantage for Antwerp in a high-stakes cup tie, with motivation to reach the final amid league struggles.
Free Tips on Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht
This section offers practical, data-driven tips tailored to the Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht Belgian Cup semi-final second leg. Drawing from recent form, head-to-head patterns, and match-specific factors like the 1-0 aggregate lead and home advantage, these insights help bettors spot value without over-relying on emotion. Focus on objective elements from the teams’ last encounters and current trends to inform smarter decisions.
- Prioritize home defensive solidity in low-scoring ties: Antwerp’s recent clean sheet in the first leg and solid Bosuilstadion record (5 wins, 3 draws in league home games this season) suggest they can frustrate Anderlecht’s attack, favoring bets on under goals or no both teams to score.
- Factor in Anderlecht’s poor away scoring run: With losses dominating their last five and limited goals conceded heavily on the road (poor away form with 3 wins in 12 league away), expect Anderlecht to struggle breaking down organized defenses, supporting lean toward Antwerp qualifying or draw no bet.
- Leverage head-to-head low-goal tendency: The last five meetings produced mostly draws or single-goal margins (three 0-0/0-1 results), with average goals around 2.0 or less, making under 2.5 a consistent angle in these rival clashes.
- Account for fatigue from recent schedule: Both sides come off congested fixtures and league losses, but Antwerp’s home edge and Anderlecht’s injury-hit squad (multiple attackers out) could amplify tiredness, tilting toward cautious play and fewer high-event outcomes.
- Consider referee influence on cards: Nathan Verboomen’s average of 4+ yellows per game suits a tense cup tie with high stakes, where physical battles over set-pieces might arise, offering value in over cards markets if the game opens up.
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Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht Match Prediction
Royal Antwerp holds a realistic chance to advance by protecting their slender lead, leveraging home support and counter-attacks against a vulnerable Anderlecht. Anderlecht’s injury-hit squad and recent losses limit their comeback potential, while Antwerp’s first-leg win exposed defensive gaps that home discipline can exploit. Expect a controlled, low-scoring affair where Antwerp frustrates visitors and nicks a result. Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht odds reflect a tight contest, but the hosts’ aggregate edge and form tilt value toward them avoiding defeat. A draw suffices for Antwerp progression, aligning with cautious play and Anderlecht’s blunt attack. Overall, Antwerp should edge through, capitalizing on momentum from the away win and defensive setup.
Our Prediction: Royal Antwerp 1-0 Anderlecht
| Prediction Type | Prediction | Odds |
| Match Result | Antwerp Win | 2.6 |
| Total Goals | Under 2.5 | 1.65 |
| Both Teams to Score | No | 1.83 |
You can place a bet on the Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht match at bc.game. Check the latest Royal Antwerp vs Anderlecht odds there and place your bet responsibly on this exciting Belgian Cup clash.