Anderlecht suffered a heavy defeat against Westerlo. The question arises as to whether this was a one-time misstep or a sign of a deeper problem. Hein Vanhaezebrouck analyzes the situation and points out structural shortcomings.
Away games as a stumbling block
According to Hein Vanhaezebrouck, the biggest problem is that Anderlecht is not convincing away from home. “That’s why I don’t think it’s an accident de parcours,” says Sporza. “Anderlecht is really a different team when away from home. They don’t have the supporters to push them forward.” The difference between home and away games remains large.
The team fails to take the lead quickly against strong opponents. “They also do not take the lead against the big teams, which is an important success factor.” The match against Genk illustrated this, where the Limburgers should even have decided the match.
Tough program
Anderlecht still has quite a series of difficult moves ahead. “Now Anderlecht still have to go to Club Brugge, Genk, Ghent, Antwerp and KV Mechelen. And then comes the collapse of Westerlo.” The schedule emphasizes that the team must prove itself against direct competitors.
The vulnerability in away games means that Vanhaezebrouck has little faith in a title opportunity. “That’s why I don’t see a title candidate in Anderlecht, because they remain too vulnerable in away games,” he continues. Despite some improvements, he still considers the step to the top insufficient.
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Although Anderlecht shows progress, the gap with the real top remains visible. “Okay, they have taken steps, although they are not yet of a nature to compete for the title,” he concludes. The question remains whether the team is able to break this pattern.
