JeanKe
25-07-12, 16:17
Belgian League Preview 2012/2013 by Jan Dauwens (jandauwens@hotmail.com)
1 . Club Brugge
Analyse:
Club Brugge again made many changes to their team. The squad of last year stayed, no real regulars left the team, but has been added with several very good players in each section of the lineup, in defence: Larson, in midfield: Jorgensen and upfront: Tchite. At the end of last season, during the play-offs, they maybe announced their biggest change: eccentric coach Daum left, while the belgian national coach, Leekens, joined. The board reveals that they now are armed to challange Anderlecht for the title this year.
Transfers:
In: Georges Leekens (KBVB), Philippe Vande Walle (Bergen), Jesper Jorgensen (AA Gent), Mémé Tchite (Standard), Bart Buysse (Twente), Ivan Trickovski (APOEL Nicosia), Jim Larsen (Rosenborg)
Out: Christoph Daum (?), Dany Verlinden (?), Nick Van Belle (Westerlo), Daan Van Gijseghem (Bergen), Pietro Perdichizzi (Zulte Waregem)
Friendlies:
24 juni: Wetteren - Club Brugge 2-2
29 juni: Hoek - Ckub Brugge 4-7
1 juli: Oudenaarde - Club Brugge 0-1
4 juli: Knokke - Club Brugge 0-8
6 juli: Club Brugge - Tubeke (in Oostduinkerke) 3-0
7 juli: Kortrijk - Club Brugge 1-2
11 juli: KV Mechelen - Club Brugge 1-0
14 juli: Club Brugge - Borussia Dortmund 3-1
15 juli: Ronse - Club Brugge 1-2
20 juli: Club Brugge – Getafe 1-5
22 juli: Heist - Club Brugge
2. Anderlecht
Analyse:
No real inforcements, but also no real losses looking at the transfers, though still many rumors about keyplayers leaving. Considering this fact, the management is also waiting to spend money for transfers if they can or can’t qualify themselves for the Champions League Group phase. Biggest change is coach Jacobs leaving the team after several years of service and last years champions title. Dutchman Van Den Brom took over. I expect a decompression year after a really stressfull season with big pressure on winning the league.
Transfers:
In: Mohammed Aoulad (FC Brussels), Dalibor Veselinovic (terug van KV Kortrijk), Ignacio Cavallero (Union Santa Fe), Osama Hawsawi (Al Hilal), Tomasz Kaminski (terug van OHL), John Van den Brom (Vitesse), Gohi Bi Cyriac (Standard)
Out: Ariël Jacobs (FC Kopenhagen), Daniel Renders (stopt), Filip De Wilde (?), Michaël Cordier (?) - Davy Schollen (STVV), Junior Kabananga (Roeselare), Patou Kabanga (Mazembe), Brandon Deville (Ajaccio), Karim Tarfi (De Graafschap)
Friendlies:
23 juni: Diegem -Anderlecht 0-5
26 juni: Ronse - Anderlecht 2-3
27 juni: Oudenaarde - Anderlecht 0-7
30 juni: Virton - Anderlecht 1-4
8 juli: Salzburg - Anderlecht 2-0
11 juli: Roeselare- Anderlecht 0-3
14 juli: Southampton - Anderlecht 0-1
14 juli: Arsenal - Anderlecht 1-0
18 juli: Woluwe - Anderlecht 1-2
22 juli: Anderlecht - Lokeren (Supercup)
3. Genk
Analyse:
The departure of starplayer De Bruyne will be a big miss, but with incoming transfer, Gorius, they found an excellent replacement. At the start of last season, they lost alot of points, due to their participation in the Champions League and the small squad with many injuries wasn’t able to coope with that. They played at their best during the play-off and I expect them to continue with this form.
Transfers:
In: Julien Gorius (KV Mechelen), Steeven Joseph-Monrose (KV Kortrijk), Kalidou Koulibaly (FC Metz)
Out: Kevin De Bruyne (Chelsea), Daniël Töszer (FC Genua), Anthony Vanden Borre (?), Timothy Durwael (?), Ndabashinze Dugary (Waasland-Beveren), Gilles Lentz (Roeselare), Logan Bailly (Mönchengladbach)
Friendlies:
23 juni: KVK Beringen - Racing Genk 0-10
30 juni: Tegelen - Racing Genk 0-10
7 juli: Termien - Racing Genk 2-4
8 juli: Bocholt VV - Racing Genk 0-5
11 juli: Racing Genk - Al Shabab 3-1
15 juli: Racing Genk - PSV 0-2
19 juli: Fortuna Sittard - Racing Genk 0-2
4. Standard
Analyse:
Attackers Tchite and Cyriac are replaced by Ogunjimi and Biton, but are surely not the same quality, while youth players Batshuayi and Ezekiel are still too unexperienced. I expect them to struggle upfront. Midfield is good, but also alot of changes in their defence which isn’t good for the stability. Also a coach from Holland came, Ron Jans, which is unusual for a team from Wallonie (the french part in Belgium). I expect a hesitating season start, but a top 6 place shouldn’t be a problem for them off course.
Transfers:
In: Ron Jans (Heerenveen), Dudu Biton (Charleroi), Danny Verbeek (Den Bosch), Marvin Ogunjimi (Mallorca), Astrit Ajdarevic (IFK Norrköping), Frédéric Bulot (Caen)
Out: Serge Gakpé (terug naar Nantes), José Riga (Aspire Academy), Guy Dufour (STVV), Felipe (Hannover), Mémé Tchite (Club Brugge), Arnor Angeli (Bergen), Gohi Bi Cyriac (Anderlecht), Birkir Bjarnason (Pescara, uitleenbeurt)
Friendlies:
22 juni: Richelle - Standard
23 juni: Leval - Standard (in Binche) 0-1
27 juni: Ciney - Standard 0-7
30 juni: Ath - Standard 0-4
7 juli: Grashoppers Zürich - Standard 2-1
8 juli: Bazel - Standard 0-1
13 juli: Standard - Otelul Galati 1-0
18 juli: Standard - Mallorca (in Waver) 1-0
19 juli: Tienen - Standard 0-7
5. Mechelen
Analyse:
Mechelen lost their best player, Julien Gorius, to Racing Genk, but has spend this money very well, with the incoming transfers of Enevoldsen, Junker and Pedersen. Alot is expected from this danish trio, especially Junker should be a certainty of goals, as he scored 23 and 20 goals with Roda 3 and 2 years ago. New coach Van Veldhoven should be able to make Mechelen relive and make their home ground with their fanatic fans a fearfull away match for all the belgian teams again. I think this team is ready to participate in the play-offs at the end of the season.
Transfers:
In: Joachim Van Damme (Waasland-Beveren), Laurens Paulussen (terug van Waasland-Beveren), Tome Pacovski (Beerschot), Harm van Veldhoven (Roda JC), Steven De Petter (Westerlo), Thomas Enevoldsen (Groningen), Mads Junker (Roda JC), Nicklas Pedersen (Groningen)
Out: Denis Alibec (?), Julien Gorius (Genk), Marc Brys (Al-Faisaly), Zinho Chergui (Visé), Jonathan Wilmet (Westerlo), Kevin Geudens (Westerlo), Kevin Van Dessel (Dender), Tom Pietermaat (Eendracht Aalst), Jonas Laureys (Westerlo)
Friendlies:
23 juni: GR Katelijne - KV Mechelen 0-8
24 juni: Wavria - KV Mechelen 0-17
27 juni: Rapid Leest - KV Mechelen 0-6
30 juni: Geel-Meerhout - KV Mechelen 2-3
1 juli: Kampenhout - KV Mechelen 0-8
4 juli: Rupel Boom - KV Mechelen 0-9
7 juli: Heist- KV Mechelen 2-2
8 juli: Rijmenam - KV Mechelen 0-12
11 juli: KV Mechelen - Club Brugge 1-0
14 juli: Helmond Sport - KV Mechelen 1-4
18 juli: KV Mechelen - Al Shabab 0-1
22 juli: KV Mechelen – Getafe
Belgian League Preview 2012/2013 by Jan Dauwens (jandauwens@hotmail.com)
6. Gent
Analyse:
With the departures of Smolders, Coulibaly, Jorgensen, El Ghanassy and Ljubijankic, Gent lost 5 important players, which aren’t replaced in short term. I think this team will face alot of problems during the competition start, maybe they will recover a bit later in the season, but for me it’s clear the board doesn’t have alot of ambition for this season with all these players leaving the team. They will have to fight for a play-off ticket with Mechelen, Lokeren, Beerschot and Cercle.
Transfers:
In: Kristof Maes (Beerschot) , Thomas Foket (Dilbeek Sport), Mohamed Messoudi (Kortrijk), Rodgers Kola (FC Ashdod), Wouter Corstjens (Westerlo), Tony Sergeant (Cercle Brugge), Jordan Remacle (OH Leuven)
Out: Tim Smolders (Cercle Brugge), Sebastien Bruzzese (Zulte Waregem), Elimane Coulibaly (Beerschot), Jesper Jorgensen (Club Brugge), Yassine El Ghanassy (West Brom Albion), Zlatan Ljubijankic (Omiya Ardija), Marko Suler (Legia Warschau), Koenraad Hendrickx (Cercle Brugge), Christophe Grondin (Al Faisaly), Jef Vogels (Rupel Boom), Mikkel Diskerud (Stabaek)
Friendlies:
25 juni: Tromso - AA Gent 0-1
27 juni: Heist - AA Gent 0-11
30 juni: Deinze - AA Gent 1-4
4 juli: Oudenaarde - AA Gent 0-5
5 juli: AA Gent - Kiryat Shmona 3-1
8 juli: AA Gent - Al Faisaly (SAr) 4-0
11 juli: Leverkusen - AA Gent 0-1
17 juli: VW Hamme - AA Gent 1-1
24 juli: Brussels - AA Gent
7. Lokeren
Analyse:
It was very silent when it came to transferpolitics at Lokeren, no real in or out’s for this team, but it was not in need for transfers as this team is very well balanced, which ended on 8th place of last season. Noone important left the team, so no reinforcements were needed
Transfers:
In: Sherwin Bailey (ASD Cape Town), Nicolas Lemaire (Bergen), Enes Saglik (Eupen), Paolo Grbac (NK Pomorac)
Out: Geir Ludvang Fevang (FK Haugesund), Seedat (ASD Cape Town), Yala-Lusala (terug naar Anderlecht), Stefan Deloose (Beerschot), Donovan Deekman (Sparta)
Friendlies:
20 juni: Sint-Pauwels - Lokeren
juni: Zelzate - Lokeren 2-9
27 juni: Bornem - Lokeren 1-3
30 juni: Aalst - Lokeren 0-1
4 juli: Cercle Brugge - Lokeren (in Eernegem) 2-2
7 juli: Lokeren - Lierse 3-1
10 juli: Lokeren - Lens 2-2
15 juli: Lokeren - Al Shabab 2-2
18 juli: OH Leuven - Lokeren 1-0
22 juli: Anderlecht – Lokeren
8. Beerschot
Analyse:
I expect this team to do much better then their 11 place of last season. They made alot of incoming transfers, which isn’t always a guarantuee for succes, but with players as Brillant, Coulibaly, Mununga, they added direct quality to their team, while talented youngsters Ojo, Wuytens and Marzo could also mean a big plus. Club Brugge’s ex-coach Koster is now leading Beerschot and he stands for attacking soccer. If they can improve their away statistics, they can end up close to the play-off tickets.
Transfers:
In: Frédéric Brillant (KV Oostende), Adrie Koster (KNVB-trainer), Funso Ojo (PSV), Koen Vanlangendonck (Bocholt), Elimane Coulibaly (AA Gent), Joachim Mununga (Gençlerbirligi), Stijn Wuytens (PSV), Goran Galesic (ND Gorica), Boldizsar Bodor (OFI Kreta), Stefano Marzo (PSV), Stefan Deloose (Lokeren), Kwame Mawuena (Gençlerbirligi)
Out: Kristof Maes (AA Gent), Mike Smet (Eendracht Aalst), Jacky Mathijssen (?), Peter Van der Heyden (?), Tome Pacovski (KV Mechelen), Nick Spaenhoven (Lierse), Bavon Tshibuabua (Ujpest),
Friendlies:
23 juni: KFCO Wilrijk - Beerschot AC 0-7
30 juni: Bornem - Beerschot AC 1-5
1 juli: Meerdonk - Beerschot AC 0-15
7 juli: Beerschot AC - Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona 0-0
11 juli: Berchem - Beerschot AC 0-3
14 juli: Beerschot AC - Al Faisaly 1-0
17 juli: Rupel Boom - Beerschot AC 3-0
21 juli: Heerenveen - Beerschot AC
9. Cercle Brugge
Analyse:
Cercle just missed out on a play off ticket with their 7th place last season, which was a big mental blow, but still reached the Europa League final against Gent. (lost with aggrerate of 2-7). Biggest loss is Reis, who was the leader of their defence. Smolders (central midfielder) and Wils (Central defender) were very well targeted transfers. They have the experience and will add stability to the team. Cercle is again a team with older/more experienced players surrounded with young talents, which has been their view and succesfull the last few years.
Transfers:
In: Tim Smolders (AA Gent), Stef Wils (Westerlo), Michael Uchebo (VVV), Koenraad Hendrickx (AA Gent), Mitchell Braafhart (Zaamsl*g), Thijs De Boevere (Standard)
Out: Tony Sergeant (AA Gent), Andrea Mutombo (HNK Rijeka), Nuno Reis (Sporting Lissabon), Honour Gombami (Antwerp), Nicaise Kudimbana (Oostende), Kevin Packet (Standaard Wetteren), Jonas Buyse (Standaard Wetteren), Amido Baldé (Sporting Lissabon)
Friendlies:
22 juni: Oudenburg - Cercle Brugge 1-6
28 juni: Oostnieuwkerke - Cercle Brugge 1-8
29 juni: Torhout - Cercle Brugge 1-5
4 juli: Cercle Brugge - Lokeren (in Eernegem) 2-2
6 juli: Cercle Brugge - Bergen (in Veldegem) 2-2
11 juli: Kopenhagen - Cercle Brugge 2-1
12 juli: Cercle Brugge - Roeselare (in Lichtervelde) 1-0
14 juli: Cercle Brugge - Westerlo (in Jabbeke) 3-1
19 juli: Nac Breda - Cercle Brugge 4-1
22 juli: Cercle Brugge - Gençlerbirligi
10. Zulte Waregem
Analyse:
There weren’t much movements in this team, but they did their best transfers already during last season’s winterbreak. Former coach Dury came back and he also brought back Berrier and Leye from Standard. Since then Zulte-Waregem started playing better and gathered points again, which wasn’t the fact before. Excellent friendlies so far and a good competition start is expected.
Transfers:
In: Frédéric Gounongbe (KVW Zaventem), Sebastien Bruzzese (AA Gent), David Vandenbroeck (Kortrijk), Ivan Lendric (Hajduk Split), Pietro Perdichizzi (Club Brugge)
Out: Jonas Vandenbogaerde (RC Waregem), Tom Muyters (?), Thomas Matton (Kortrijk), Stijn Minne (Westerlo), Jeremy Bokila (FC Petrolul, verhuurd), Miguel Dachelet (Lierse), Chakhir Belghazouani (Ajaccio), Stijn Meert (Oudenaarde)
Friendlies:
21 juni: RC Waregem - Zulte Waregem 0-6
27 juni: Zulte Waregem - Eendracht Aalst 4-0
3 juli: Ronse - Zulte Waregem 0-2
7 juli: Valenciennes - Zulte Waregem 2-2
10 juli: Waasland-Beveren - Zulte Waregem (in Hamme) 0-1
14 juli: Zulte Waregem - Boulogne 2-0
17 juli: Roeselare - Zulte Waregem 1-3
Belgian League Preview 2012/2013 by Jan Dauwens (jandauwens@hotmail.com)
11. Kortrijk
Analyse:
Kortrijk had an unexpected wonderful season rewarded with a 6th place and a ticket for the play-offs. This season will be different, although much will depend on the several french players that they bought. I have no idea if they can add something to the team, but with regulars Veselinovic, Messoudi, Chavarria, Vandenbroeck an Monrose leaving, there is a big quality loss, so I expect them to drop several places in the final table this year.
Transfers:
In: Kévin Dupuis(Châteauroux), Thomas Matton (Zulte Waregem), Jimmy Kamghain (PSG), Romain Reynaud (Châteauroux), Blandel Koussalouka (AS Monaco B), Stefan Mitrovic (Metalac), Patrick Deman (Sparta Petegem)
Out: Dalibor Veselinovic (terug naar Anderlecht), Mohamed Messoudi (AA Gent), Pablo Chavarria (terug naar Anderlecht), David Vandenbroeck (terug naar Zulte Waregem), Steeven Joseph-Monrose (Racing Genk)
Friendlies:
22 juni: Heule - Kortrijk 1-6
23 juni: Ingelmunster - Kortrijk 0-7
29 juni: Izegem - Kortrijk 0-2
30 juni: Eernegem - Kortrijk 0-3
3 juli: Harelbeke - Kortrijk 0-3
7 juli: Kortrijk - Club Brugge 1-2
11 juli: KV Kortrijk - Ujpest (Hon) 5-0
14 juli: ADO Den Haag - KV Kortrijk 1-2
18 juli: KV Oostende - Kortrijk 1-2
24 juli: Kortrijk - Players4Contract
12. Bergen
Analyse:
Topscorer of last years Belgian jupiler league, Perbet hasn’t been transfered yet, but this is just a matter of time. They will be losing 22 goals, but also their second striker Ibou (6 goals) left the team. Reserve attacker Makiese also joined another team. Only attacker Nong is left and should make the attacking departement with Köse, Biatour or Angeli. This could become a problem for Bergen, while they shouldn’t worry about their defence and midfield, these are filled with enough quality to stay in the league.
Transfers:
In: Kieran Felix (Mouscron-Péruwelz), Bahattin Köse (Bielefeld), Christophe Grondin (AA Gent), Daan Van Gijseghem (Club Brugge) Arnor Angeli (Standard), Arnaud Biatour (Tienen)
Out: Philippe Vande Walle (Club Brugge), Aliou Dia (?), Nicolas Lemaire (Lokeren), Siebe Blondelle (Waasland-Beveren), Ibou Sawaneh (Oud-Heverlee Leuven), Noë Dusenne (Tubeke), Chris Makiese (Visé), Rachid Bourabia (Lierse)
Friendlies:
23 juni: Eendracht Aalst - Bergen 1-2
27 juni: Ath - Bergen 0-3
30 juni: Woluwe - Bergen 0-1
6 juli: Cercle Brugge - Bergen 2-2
11 juli: Tubeke - Bergen 1-1
14 juli: PAOK - Bergen 2-0
17 juli: Oudenaarde -Bergen 1-2
21 juli: Bergen – Valenciennes
13. Leuven
Analyse:
Remacle and Iakovenko were able to decide a match on their own and won alot of points for Leuven, but wont be doing that for Leuven this season. Weird that they transfered more defenders (Vanaudenaerde, Thompson, De Roeck, Buysens, Bailly), instead of attackers (only Ibou). Keyattacker, Ruytinx is long term injured now, so they really need to bring in more attacking power. If they can do this, they should be able to stay in the league.
Transfers:
In: Kenny Thompson (Lierse), Christophe Verbist (Charleroi), Gunther Vanaudenaerde (Westerlo), Wout Bastiaens (Westerlo), Jonas De Roeck (Augsburg), Logan Bailly (Mönchengladbach), Ibou Sawaneh (Bergen), Ludovic Buysens (STVV)
Out: Maxime Annys (STVV), Kenneth Van Goethem (?), Pieter Nys (?), Radek Dejmek (?), Floribert Ngalula (?), Lionel Gendarme (?) Ibrahim Salou (?),Sacha Iakovenko (terug naar Anderlecht) Tomasz Kaminski (terug naar Anderlecht), Christophe Diandy (terug naar Anderlecht), Jordan Remacle (AA Gent)
Friendlies:
zaterdag 23 juni: Haasrode- OH Leuven 0-5
woensdag 27 juni: Kampenhout - OH Leuven 0-2
zaterdag 30 juni: Bierbeek- OH Leuven 0-3
woensdag 4 juli: FC Den Bosch - OH Leuven 1-2
zondag 8 juli:Wijgmaal - OH Leuven 1-5
woensdag 11 juli: Lierse - OH Leuven 1-1
zaterdag 14 juli: Antwerp - OH Leuven 1-2
woensdag 18 juli: OH Leuven – Lokeren
14. Waasland Beveren
Analyse:
The friendlies hasn’t been so successfull for this newcomer and they will have to take the points with fighting spirit instead of their talents. With Belhocine, Cruz, Dugary and Farssi, they gathered some experience in First division wich should help, but alot will depend on the form of Cruz, he is talented but has alot of injuries and bad moments. If the attacking line isn’t reinforced, this will be their weakness and will decided to stay in the league or not. Coach Geeraerd knows how to fight against relegation and will try everything to succeed.
Transfers:
In: Gertjan Martens (KV Oostende), Mendy (FC Brussels), Siebe Blondelle (Bergen), Ndabashinze Dugary (Racing Genk), Rachid Farssi (Westerlo), Colin Coosemans (Club Brugge, gehuurd), Daniel Cruz (Dallas), Roel van Hemert (Hjorring), Franco Zennaro (Standard), Karim Belhocine (Standard)
Out: Joachim Van Damme (KV Mechelen), Spencer Verbiest (Cappellen), Jan Masureel (Deinze), Laurens Paulussen (terug naar KV Mechelen), Hervé Onana (terug naar STVV), Bousfia (St-Gillis-Waas), Matti Vanminnebruggen (Berchem Sport), Tomasz Radzinski (vrij)
Friendlies:
29 juni: Zele-Waasland-Beveren 0-4
30 juni: Damme - Waasland-Beveren 0-5
5 juli: Nordsjaelland - Waasland-Beveren 1-0
10 juli: Waasland-Beveren - Zulte Waregem (in Hamme) 0-1
13 juli: Melsele - Waasland-Beveren 1-12
14 juli: Hamme - Waasland-Beveren 2-0
17 juli: sc Heerenveen - Waasland-Beveren 0-0
15. Lierse
Analyse:
Coach Janssens already in big troubles, many important players left and some are long term injured. They are now making panic transfers which is never good. I dont expect much from this team and i even dare to predict them on this relegation spot at the end of the season.
Transfers:
In: Benjamin Lambot (Antwerp), Achmed Samir Farag (Wadi Degla), Jonas Heymans (Wetteren), Arjan Swinkels (Willem II), Kostadin Hasurov (Bnei Sakhin), Lennert Vanherbergen (Tienen), Nick Spaenhoven (Beerschot), Ahmed Saied (Wadi Degla), Miguel Dachelet (Zulte Waregem), Rachid Bourabia (Bergen)
Out: Gonzague Vandooren (?), Alexander Mathisen (?), Flavio Amado (?), Wesley Sonck (?), Boban Grncarov (Botev Plovdiv), Kenny Thompson (OHL), Siboniso Gaxa (Kaiser Chiefs), Eiji Kawashima (Standard)
Friendlies:
22 juni: GR Katelijne - Lierse 1-7
23 juni: Hooikt - Lierse 1-3
29 juni: Duffel - Lierse 0-3
30 juni: Lyra - Lierse 0-4
4 juli: Zeeuwse selectie - Lierse 1-2 (stopgezet door onweer)
7 juli: Lokeren - Lierse 3-1
11 juli: Lierse - OH Leuven 1-1
14 juli: MVV - Lierse 0-1
16 juli: Lierse - Egyptisch olympisch team 1-2
18 juli: Lierse - Hibernian 1-1
21 juli: Lierse - Willem II
16. Charleroi
Analyse:
No real incoming transfers, only newbie coach Ferrera, who won’t last long, if Charleroi keeps their “tradition” high, with short term coaches. Last year, they had 3 coaches in one season. The management tried to sell the club but didn’t succeed yet. They really dont show no point of direction and any kind of stability. The fans are mistrusted, so are staying away. Charleroi only sold 1000 subscriptions instead of 3000. They will face a very difficult season and it’s very probable that they can book their ticket back to second division right away.
Transfers:
In: Yannick Ferrera
Out: Christophe Verbist (OHL), Dudu Biton (Standard), Moussa Gueye (FC Metz), Kevin De Wolf (Tienen), Ivan Yagan (Woluwe), Thibaut Deplanck (Huy), Mehdi Khchab (Virton)
Friendlies:
zaterdag 23 juni: Heppignies - Charleroi 1-3
zaterdag 30 juni: Esch - Charleroi 0-1
woensdag 4 juli: Tubeke - Charleroi 1-2
donderdag 12 juli: Borinage - Charleroi 0-1
Belgian League Preview 2012/2013 by Jan Dauwens (jandauwens@hotmail.com)
1 . Club Brugge
Analyse:
Club Brugge again made many changes to their team. The squad of last year stayed, no real regulars left the team, but has been added with several very good players in each section of the lineup, in defence: Larson, in midfield: Jorgensen and upfront: Tchite. At the end of last season, during the play-offs, they maybe announced their biggest change: eccentric coach Daum left, while the belgian national coach, Leekens, joined. The board reveals that they now are armed to challange Anderlecht for the title this year.
Transfers:
In: Georges Leekens (KBVB), Philippe Vande Walle (Bergen), Jesper Jorgensen (AA Gent), Mémé Tchite (Standard), Bart Buysse (Twente), Ivan Trickovski (APOEL Nicosia), Jim Larsen (Rosenborg)
Out: Christoph Daum (?), Dany Verlinden (?), Nick Van Belle (Westerlo), Daan Van Gijseghem (Bergen), Pietro Perdichizzi (Zulte Waregem)
Friendlies:
24 juni: Wetteren - Club Brugge 2-2
29 juni: Hoek - Ckub Brugge 4-7
1 juli: Oudenaarde - Club Brugge 0-1
4 juli: Knokke - Club Brugge 0-8
6 juli: Club Brugge - Tubeke (in Oostduinkerke) 3-0
7 juli: Kortrijk - Club Brugge 1-2
11 juli: KV Mechelen - Club Brugge 1-0
14 juli: Club Brugge - Borussia Dortmund 3-1
15 juli: Ronse - Club Brugge 1-2
20 juli: Club Brugge – Getafe 1-5
22 juli: Heist - Club Brugge
2. Anderlecht
Analyse:
No real inforcements, but also no real losses looking at the transfers, though still many rumors about keyplayers leaving. Considering this fact, the management is also waiting to spend money for transfers if they can or can’t qualify themselves for the Champions League Group phase. Biggest change is coach Jacobs leaving the team after several years of service and last years champions title. Dutchman Van Den Brom took over. I expect a decompression year after a really stressfull season with big pressure on winning the league.
Transfers:
In: Mohammed Aoulad (FC Brussels), Dalibor Veselinovic (terug van KV Kortrijk), Ignacio Cavallero (Union Santa Fe), Osama Hawsawi (Al Hilal), Tomasz Kaminski (terug van OHL), John Van den Brom (Vitesse), Gohi Bi Cyriac (Standard)
Out: Ariël Jacobs (FC Kopenhagen), Daniel Renders (stopt), Filip De Wilde (?), Michaël Cordier (?) - Davy Schollen (STVV), Junior Kabananga (Roeselare), Patou Kabanga (Mazembe), Brandon Deville (Ajaccio), Karim Tarfi (De Graafschap)
Friendlies:
23 juni: Diegem -Anderlecht 0-5
26 juni: Ronse - Anderlecht 2-3
27 juni: Oudenaarde - Anderlecht 0-7
30 juni: Virton - Anderlecht 1-4
8 juli: Salzburg - Anderlecht 2-0
11 juli: Roeselare- Anderlecht 0-3
14 juli: Southampton - Anderlecht 0-1
14 juli: Arsenal - Anderlecht 1-0
18 juli: Woluwe - Anderlecht 1-2
22 juli: Anderlecht - Lokeren (Supercup)
3. Genk
Analyse:
The departure of starplayer De Bruyne will be a big miss, but with incoming transfer, Gorius, they found an excellent replacement. At the start of last season, they lost alot of points, due to their participation in the Champions League and the small squad with many injuries wasn’t able to coope with that. They played at their best during the play-off and I expect them to continue with this form.
Transfers:
In: Julien Gorius (KV Mechelen), Steeven Joseph-Monrose (KV Kortrijk), Kalidou Koulibaly (FC Metz)
Out: Kevin De Bruyne (Chelsea), Daniël Töszer (FC Genua), Anthony Vanden Borre (?), Timothy Durwael (?), Ndabashinze Dugary (Waasland-Beveren), Gilles Lentz (Roeselare), Logan Bailly (Mönchengladbach)
Friendlies:
23 juni: KVK Beringen - Racing Genk 0-10
30 juni: Tegelen - Racing Genk 0-10
7 juli: Termien - Racing Genk 2-4
8 juli: Bocholt VV - Racing Genk 0-5
11 juli: Racing Genk - Al Shabab 3-1
15 juli: Racing Genk - PSV 0-2
19 juli: Fortuna Sittard - Racing Genk 0-2
4. Standard
Analyse:
Attackers Tchite and Cyriac are replaced by Ogunjimi and Biton, but are surely not the same quality, while youth players Batshuayi and Ezekiel are still too unexperienced. I expect them to struggle upfront. Midfield is good, but also alot of changes in their defence which isn’t good for the stability. Also a coach from Holland came, Ron Jans, which is unusual for a team from Wallonie (the french part in Belgium). I expect a hesitating season start, but a top 6 place shouldn’t be a problem for them off course.
Transfers:
In: Ron Jans (Heerenveen), Dudu Biton (Charleroi), Danny Verbeek (Den Bosch), Marvin Ogunjimi (Mallorca), Astrit Ajdarevic (IFK Norrköping), Frédéric Bulot (Caen)
Out: Serge Gakpé (terug naar Nantes), José Riga (Aspire Academy), Guy Dufour (STVV), Felipe (Hannover), Mémé Tchite (Club Brugge), Arnor Angeli (Bergen), Gohi Bi Cyriac (Anderlecht), Birkir Bjarnason (Pescara, uitleenbeurt)
Friendlies:
22 juni: Richelle - Standard
23 juni: Leval - Standard (in Binche) 0-1
27 juni: Ciney - Standard 0-7
30 juni: Ath - Standard 0-4
7 juli: Grashoppers Zürich - Standard 2-1
8 juli: Bazel - Standard 0-1
13 juli: Standard - Otelul Galati 1-0
18 juli: Standard - Mallorca (in Waver) 1-0
19 juli: Tienen - Standard 0-7
5. Mechelen
Analyse:
Mechelen lost their best player, Julien Gorius, to Racing Genk, but has spend this money very well, with the incoming transfers of Enevoldsen, Junker and Pedersen. Alot is expected from this danish trio, especially Junker should be a certainty of goals, as he scored 23 and 20 goals with Roda 3 and 2 years ago. New coach Van Veldhoven should be able to make Mechelen relive and make their home ground with their fanatic fans a fearfull away match for all the belgian teams again. I think this team is ready to participate in the play-offs at the end of the season.
Transfers:
In: Joachim Van Damme (Waasland-Beveren), Laurens Paulussen (terug van Waasland-Beveren), Tome Pacovski (Beerschot), Harm van Veldhoven (Roda JC), Steven De Petter (Westerlo), Thomas Enevoldsen (Groningen), Mads Junker (Roda JC), Nicklas Pedersen (Groningen)
Out: Denis Alibec (?), Julien Gorius (Genk), Marc Brys (Al-Faisaly), Zinho Chergui (Visé), Jonathan Wilmet (Westerlo), Kevin Geudens (Westerlo), Kevin Van Dessel (Dender), Tom Pietermaat (Eendracht Aalst), Jonas Laureys (Westerlo)
Friendlies:
23 juni: GR Katelijne - KV Mechelen 0-8
24 juni: Wavria - KV Mechelen 0-17
27 juni: Rapid Leest - KV Mechelen 0-6
30 juni: Geel-Meerhout - KV Mechelen 2-3
1 juli: Kampenhout - KV Mechelen 0-8
4 juli: Rupel Boom - KV Mechelen 0-9
7 juli: Heist- KV Mechelen 2-2
8 juli: Rijmenam - KV Mechelen 0-12
11 juli: KV Mechelen - Club Brugge 1-0
14 juli: Helmond Sport - KV Mechelen 1-4
18 juli: KV Mechelen - Al Shabab 0-1
22 juli: KV Mechelen – Getafe
Belgian League Preview 2012/2013 by Jan Dauwens (jandauwens@hotmail.com)
6. Gent
Analyse:
With the departures of Smolders, Coulibaly, Jorgensen, El Ghanassy and Ljubijankic, Gent lost 5 important players, which aren’t replaced in short term. I think this team will face alot of problems during the competition start, maybe they will recover a bit later in the season, but for me it’s clear the board doesn’t have alot of ambition for this season with all these players leaving the team. They will have to fight for a play-off ticket with Mechelen, Lokeren, Beerschot and Cercle.
Transfers:
In: Kristof Maes (Beerschot) , Thomas Foket (Dilbeek Sport), Mohamed Messoudi (Kortrijk), Rodgers Kola (FC Ashdod), Wouter Corstjens (Westerlo), Tony Sergeant (Cercle Brugge), Jordan Remacle (OH Leuven)
Out: Tim Smolders (Cercle Brugge), Sebastien Bruzzese (Zulte Waregem), Elimane Coulibaly (Beerschot), Jesper Jorgensen (Club Brugge), Yassine El Ghanassy (West Brom Albion), Zlatan Ljubijankic (Omiya Ardija), Marko Suler (Legia Warschau), Koenraad Hendrickx (Cercle Brugge), Christophe Grondin (Al Faisaly), Jef Vogels (Rupel Boom), Mikkel Diskerud (Stabaek)
Friendlies:
25 juni: Tromso - AA Gent 0-1
27 juni: Heist - AA Gent 0-11
30 juni: Deinze - AA Gent 1-4
4 juli: Oudenaarde - AA Gent 0-5
5 juli: AA Gent - Kiryat Shmona 3-1
8 juli: AA Gent - Al Faisaly (SAr) 4-0
11 juli: Leverkusen - AA Gent 0-1
17 juli: VW Hamme - AA Gent 1-1
24 juli: Brussels - AA Gent
7. Lokeren
Analyse:
It was very silent when it came to transferpolitics at Lokeren, no real in or out’s for this team, but it was not in need for transfers as this team is very well balanced, which ended on 8th place of last season. Noone important left the team, so no reinforcements were needed
Transfers:
In: Sherwin Bailey (ASD Cape Town), Nicolas Lemaire (Bergen), Enes Saglik (Eupen), Paolo Grbac (NK Pomorac)
Out: Geir Ludvang Fevang (FK Haugesund), Seedat (ASD Cape Town), Yala-Lusala (terug naar Anderlecht), Stefan Deloose (Beerschot), Donovan Deekman (Sparta)
Friendlies:
20 juni: Sint-Pauwels - Lokeren
juni: Zelzate - Lokeren 2-9
27 juni: Bornem - Lokeren 1-3
30 juni: Aalst - Lokeren 0-1
4 juli: Cercle Brugge - Lokeren (in Eernegem) 2-2
7 juli: Lokeren - Lierse 3-1
10 juli: Lokeren - Lens 2-2
15 juli: Lokeren - Al Shabab 2-2
18 juli: OH Leuven - Lokeren 1-0
22 juli: Anderlecht – Lokeren
8. Beerschot
Analyse:
I expect this team to do much better then their 11 place of last season. They made alot of incoming transfers, which isn’t always a guarantuee for succes, but with players as Brillant, Coulibaly, Mununga, they added direct quality to their team, while talented youngsters Ojo, Wuytens and Marzo could also mean a big plus. Club Brugge’s ex-coach Koster is now leading Beerschot and he stands for attacking soccer. If they can improve their away statistics, they can end up close to the play-off tickets.
Transfers:
In: Frédéric Brillant (KV Oostende), Adrie Koster (KNVB-trainer), Funso Ojo (PSV), Koen Vanlangendonck (Bocholt), Elimane Coulibaly (AA Gent), Joachim Mununga (Gençlerbirligi), Stijn Wuytens (PSV), Goran Galesic (ND Gorica), Boldizsar Bodor (OFI Kreta), Stefano Marzo (PSV), Stefan Deloose (Lokeren), Kwame Mawuena (Gençlerbirligi)
Out: Kristof Maes (AA Gent), Mike Smet (Eendracht Aalst), Jacky Mathijssen (?), Peter Van der Heyden (?), Tome Pacovski (KV Mechelen), Nick Spaenhoven (Lierse), Bavon Tshibuabua (Ujpest),
Friendlies:
23 juni: KFCO Wilrijk - Beerschot AC 0-7
30 juni: Bornem - Beerschot AC 1-5
1 juli: Meerdonk - Beerschot AC 0-15
7 juli: Beerschot AC - Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona 0-0
11 juli: Berchem - Beerschot AC 0-3
14 juli: Beerschot AC - Al Faisaly 1-0
17 juli: Rupel Boom - Beerschot AC 3-0
21 juli: Heerenveen - Beerschot AC
9. Cercle Brugge
Analyse:
Cercle just missed out on a play off ticket with their 7th place last season, which was a big mental blow, but still reached the Europa League final against Gent. (lost with aggrerate of 2-7). Biggest loss is Reis, who was the leader of their defence. Smolders (central midfielder) and Wils (Central defender) were very well targeted transfers. They have the experience and will add stability to the team. Cercle is again a team with older/more experienced players surrounded with young talents, which has been their view and succesfull the last few years.
Transfers:
In: Tim Smolders (AA Gent), Stef Wils (Westerlo), Michael Uchebo (VVV), Koenraad Hendrickx (AA Gent), Mitchell Braafhart (Zaamsl*g), Thijs De Boevere (Standard)
Out: Tony Sergeant (AA Gent), Andrea Mutombo (HNK Rijeka), Nuno Reis (Sporting Lissabon), Honour Gombami (Antwerp), Nicaise Kudimbana (Oostende), Kevin Packet (Standaard Wetteren), Jonas Buyse (Standaard Wetteren), Amido Baldé (Sporting Lissabon)
Friendlies:
22 juni: Oudenburg - Cercle Brugge 1-6
28 juni: Oostnieuwkerke - Cercle Brugge 1-8
29 juni: Torhout - Cercle Brugge 1-5
4 juli: Cercle Brugge - Lokeren (in Eernegem) 2-2
6 juli: Cercle Brugge - Bergen (in Veldegem) 2-2
11 juli: Kopenhagen - Cercle Brugge 2-1
12 juli: Cercle Brugge - Roeselare (in Lichtervelde) 1-0
14 juli: Cercle Brugge - Westerlo (in Jabbeke) 3-1
19 juli: Nac Breda - Cercle Brugge 4-1
22 juli: Cercle Brugge - Gençlerbirligi
10. Zulte Waregem
Analyse:
There weren’t much movements in this team, but they did their best transfers already during last season’s winterbreak. Former coach Dury came back and he also brought back Berrier and Leye from Standard. Since then Zulte-Waregem started playing better and gathered points again, which wasn’t the fact before. Excellent friendlies so far and a good competition start is expected.
Transfers:
In: Frédéric Gounongbe (KVW Zaventem), Sebastien Bruzzese (AA Gent), David Vandenbroeck (Kortrijk), Ivan Lendric (Hajduk Split), Pietro Perdichizzi (Club Brugge)
Out: Jonas Vandenbogaerde (RC Waregem), Tom Muyters (?), Thomas Matton (Kortrijk), Stijn Minne (Westerlo), Jeremy Bokila (FC Petrolul, verhuurd), Miguel Dachelet (Lierse), Chakhir Belghazouani (Ajaccio), Stijn Meert (Oudenaarde)
Friendlies:
21 juni: RC Waregem - Zulte Waregem 0-6
27 juni: Zulte Waregem - Eendracht Aalst 4-0
3 juli: Ronse - Zulte Waregem 0-2
7 juli: Valenciennes - Zulte Waregem 2-2
10 juli: Waasland-Beveren - Zulte Waregem (in Hamme) 0-1
14 juli: Zulte Waregem - Boulogne 2-0
17 juli: Roeselare - Zulte Waregem 1-3
Belgian League Preview 2012/2013 by Jan Dauwens (jandauwens@hotmail.com)
11. Kortrijk
Analyse:
Kortrijk had an unexpected wonderful season rewarded with a 6th place and a ticket for the play-offs. This season will be different, although much will depend on the several french players that they bought. I have no idea if they can add something to the team, but with regulars Veselinovic, Messoudi, Chavarria, Vandenbroeck an Monrose leaving, there is a big quality loss, so I expect them to drop several places in the final table this year.
Transfers:
In: Kévin Dupuis(Châteauroux), Thomas Matton (Zulte Waregem), Jimmy Kamghain (PSG), Romain Reynaud (Châteauroux), Blandel Koussalouka (AS Monaco B), Stefan Mitrovic (Metalac), Patrick Deman (Sparta Petegem)
Out: Dalibor Veselinovic (terug naar Anderlecht), Mohamed Messoudi (AA Gent), Pablo Chavarria (terug naar Anderlecht), David Vandenbroeck (terug naar Zulte Waregem), Steeven Joseph-Monrose (Racing Genk)
Friendlies:
22 juni: Heule - Kortrijk 1-6
23 juni: Ingelmunster - Kortrijk 0-7
29 juni: Izegem - Kortrijk 0-2
30 juni: Eernegem - Kortrijk 0-3
3 juli: Harelbeke - Kortrijk 0-3
7 juli: Kortrijk - Club Brugge 1-2
11 juli: KV Kortrijk - Ujpest (Hon) 5-0
14 juli: ADO Den Haag - KV Kortrijk 1-2
18 juli: KV Oostende - Kortrijk 1-2
24 juli: Kortrijk - Players4Contract
12. Bergen
Analyse:
Topscorer of last years Belgian jupiler league, Perbet hasn’t been transfered yet, but this is just a matter of time. They will be losing 22 goals, but also their second striker Ibou (6 goals) left the team. Reserve attacker Makiese also joined another team. Only attacker Nong is left and should make the attacking departement with Köse, Biatour or Angeli. This could become a problem for Bergen, while they shouldn’t worry about their defence and midfield, these are filled with enough quality to stay in the league.
Transfers:
In: Kieran Felix (Mouscron-Péruwelz), Bahattin Köse (Bielefeld), Christophe Grondin (AA Gent), Daan Van Gijseghem (Club Brugge) Arnor Angeli (Standard), Arnaud Biatour (Tienen)
Out: Philippe Vande Walle (Club Brugge), Aliou Dia (?), Nicolas Lemaire (Lokeren), Siebe Blondelle (Waasland-Beveren), Ibou Sawaneh (Oud-Heverlee Leuven), Noë Dusenne (Tubeke), Chris Makiese (Visé), Rachid Bourabia (Lierse)
Friendlies:
23 juni: Eendracht Aalst - Bergen 1-2
27 juni: Ath - Bergen 0-3
30 juni: Woluwe - Bergen 0-1
6 juli: Cercle Brugge - Bergen 2-2
11 juli: Tubeke - Bergen 1-1
14 juli: PAOK - Bergen 2-0
17 juli: Oudenaarde -Bergen 1-2
21 juli: Bergen – Valenciennes
13. Leuven
Analyse:
Remacle and Iakovenko were able to decide a match on their own and won alot of points for Leuven, but wont be doing that for Leuven this season. Weird that they transfered more defenders (Vanaudenaerde, Thompson, De Roeck, Buysens, Bailly), instead of attackers (only Ibou). Keyattacker, Ruytinx is long term injured now, so they really need to bring in more attacking power. If they can do this, they should be able to stay in the league.
Transfers:
In: Kenny Thompson (Lierse), Christophe Verbist (Charleroi), Gunther Vanaudenaerde (Westerlo), Wout Bastiaens (Westerlo), Jonas De Roeck (Augsburg), Logan Bailly (Mönchengladbach), Ibou Sawaneh (Bergen), Ludovic Buysens (STVV)
Out: Maxime Annys (STVV), Kenneth Van Goethem (?), Pieter Nys (?), Radek Dejmek (?), Floribert Ngalula (?), Lionel Gendarme (?) Ibrahim Salou (?),Sacha Iakovenko (terug naar Anderlecht) Tomasz Kaminski (terug naar Anderlecht), Christophe Diandy (terug naar Anderlecht), Jordan Remacle (AA Gent)
Friendlies:
zaterdag 23 juni: Haasrode- OH Leuven 0-5
woensdag 27 juni: Kampenhout - OH Leuven 0-2
zaterdag 30 juni: Bierbeek- OH Leuven 0-3
woensdag 4 juli: FC Den Bosch - OH Leuven 1-2
zondag 8 juli:Wijgmaal - OH Leuven 1-5
woensdag 11 juli: Lierse - OH Leuven 1-1
zaterdag 14 juli: Antwerp - OH Leuven 1-2
woensdag 18 juli: OH Leuven – Lokeren
14. Waasland Beveren
Analyse:
The friendlies hasn’t been so successfull for this newcomer and they will have to take the points with fighting spirit instead of their talents. With Belhocine, Cruz, Dugary and Farssi, they gathered some experience in First division wich should help, but alot will depend on the form of Cruz, he is talented but has alot of injuries and bad moments. If the attacking line isn’t reinforced, this will be their weakness and will decided to stay in the league or not. Coach Geeraerd knows how to fight against relegation and will try everything to succeed.
Transfers:
In: Gertjan Martens (KV Oostende), Mendy (FC Brussels), Siebe Blondelle (Bergen), Ndabashinze Dugary (Racing Genk), Rachid Farssi (Westerlo), Colin Coosemans (Club Brugge, gehuurd), Daniel Cruz (Dallas), Roel van Hemert (Hjorring), Franco Zennaro (Standard), Karim Belhocine (Standard)
Out: Joachim Van Damme (KV Mechelen), Spencer Verbiest (Cappellen), Jan Masureel (Deinze), Laurens Paulussen (terug naar KV Mechelen), Hervé Onana (terug naar STVV), Bousfia (St-Gillis-Waas), Matti Vanminnebruggen (Berchem Sport), Tomasz Radzinski (vrij)
Friendlies:
29 juni: Zele-Waasland-Beveren 0-4
30 juni: Damme - Waasland-Beveren 0-5
5 juli: Nordsjaelland - Waasland-Beveren 1-0
10 juli: Waasland-Beveren - Zulte Waregem (in Hamme) 0-1
13 juli: Melsele - Waasland-Beveren 1-12
14 juli: Hamme - Waasland-Beveren 2-0
17 juli: sc Heerenveen - Waasland-Beveren 0-0
15. Lierse
Analyse:
Coach Janssens already in big troubles, many important players left and some are long term injured. They are now making panic transfers which is never good. I dont expect much from this team and i even dare to predict them on this relegation spot at the end of the season.
Transfers:
In: Benjamin Lambot (Antwerp), Achmed Samir Farag (Wadi Degla), Jonas Heymans (Wetteren), Arjan Swinkels (Willem II), Kostadin Hasurov (Bnei Sakhin), Lennert Vanherbergen (Tienen), Nick Spaenhoven (Beerschot), Ahmed Saied (Wadi Degla), Miguel Dachelet (Zulte Waregem), Rachid Bourabia (Bergen)
Out: Gonzague Vandooren (?), Alexander Mathisen (?), Flavio Amado (?), Wesley Sonck (?), Boban Grncarov (Botev Plovdiv), Kenny Thompson (OHL), Siboniso Gaxa (Kaiser Chiefs), Eiji Kawashima (Standard)
Friendlies:
22 juni: GR Katelijne - Lierse 1-7
23 juni: Hooikt - Lierse 1-3
29 juni: Duffel - Lierse 0-3
30 juni: Lyra - Lierse 0-4
4 juli: Zeeuwse selectie - Lierse 1-2 (stopgezet door onweer)
7 juli: Lokeren - Lierse 3-1
11 juli: Lierse - OH Leuven 1-1
14 juli: MVV - Lierse 0-1
16 juli: Lierse - Egyptisch olympisch team 1-2
18 juli: Lierse - Hibernian 1-1
21 juli: Lierse - Willem II
16. Charleroi
Analyse:
No real incoming transfers, only newbie coach Ferrera, who won’t last long, if Charleroi keeps their “tradition” high, with short term coaches. Last year, they had 3 coaches in one season. The management tried to sell the club but didn’t succeed yet. They really dont show no point of direction and any kind of stability. The fans are mistrusted, so are staying away. Charleroi only sold 1000 subscriptions instead of 3000. They will face a very difficult season and it’s very probable that they can book their ticket back to second division right away.
Transfers:
In: Yannick Ferrera
Out: Christophe Verbist (OHL), Dudu Biton (Standard), Moussa Gueye (FC Metz), Kevin De Wolf (Tienen), Ivan Yagan (Woluwe), Thibaut Deplanck (Huy), Mehdi Khchab (Virton)
Friendlies:
zaterdag 23 juni: Heppignies - Charleroi 1-3
zaterdag 30 juni: Esch - Charleroi 0-1
woensdag 4 juli: Tubeke - Charleroi 1-2
donderdag 12 juli: Borinage - Charleroi 0-1
Belgian League Preview 2012/2013 by Jan Dauwens (jandauwens@hotmail.com)