GAMES Today, Anderlecht starts the new season, and a crucial home match against Westerlo awaits them right away. The Purple & White's August schedule looks manageable on paper, but they need to actually win those points before facing the top clubs. Like many other teams, Anderlecht doesn't seem ready for the start of the season.
Anderlecht narrowly defeated Häcken in the Europa League on Thursday. Of all the newcomers, only Llansana was in the starting lineup, as Keita, Hatenboer, and Camara are already out. Saliba came on in the second half and made a good impression. Can Anderlecht create more chances against Westerlo and concede fewer clear-cut chances at the back than they did against the Swedes? Will Dolberg also be fit for tomorrow? The Dane, who was also out regularly last season, injured his knee against Häcken and is already doubtful. He demonstrated once again how crucial he is for Anderlecht.
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Continue reading Anderlecht urgently needs reinforcements on the wings. Angulo and Kanaté are good players, but their efficiency is (for now) far too limited. There's a big gap on the right that they can't seem to fill after Dreyer's departure. Will we see Degreef being preferred there again over Hazard, who came on well as a substitute on Thursday?
Westerlo has appointed a new manager in Charaï. Otherwise, there hasn't been much transfer activity at the Kempen club for the time being. They lost Bos to Feyenoord and acquired an extra attacker in Ferri (loaned to Kortrijk last season). Vuskovic has returned to Tottenham.
Last season, Anderlecht dropped two points at home after a 2-2 draw. Due to a hopeless defeat at Westerlo, they only managed 1 point in 6 against the Kempen club.
Kick-off: 1:30 PM Stadium: Lotto Park Referee: Simon Bourdeaud'hui
