Jellert van Landschoot ↑76′ · Boris Lambert ↑76′ · Basile Vroninks ↑76′ · Patrik Sigurdur Gunnarsson · James Ndjeungoue · Nayel Mehssatou · Shandre Campbell · Anthony Philips · Ken Masui · Patrik Sigurdur Gunnarsson · Liam De Smet · Matthew Anderson
Coach · Michiel Jonckheere
Match Preview
Kortrijk vs Zulte Waregem Match Preview
AI-written editorial preview · updated 2026-09-04 14:14 UTC
Kortrijk and Zulte Waregem clash at Guldensporenstadion
Sunday afternoon at the Guldensporenstadion sees Kortrijk host Zulte Waregem for matchday 5 of the Belgian Pro League. With contrasting starts to their domestic campaigns, both sides arrive looking to define their momentum in the early stages of the season.
Expected lineups and tactical outlook
Kortrijk are expected to line up with Marko Ilic in goal, supported by a defensive unit featuring Nayel Mehssatou, Boris Lambert, James Ndjeungoue, Gilles Ruyssen, and Rudy Kohon. In midfield, Ken Masui and Brecht Dejaeghere will look to provide stability, while Goduine Koyalipou, Thierry Ambrose, and Shandre Campbell lead the attacking efforts.
Zulte Waregem are expected to field Louis Bostyn in goal, protected by a back four of Yannick Cappelle, Jakob Kiilerich Rask, Laurent Lemoine, and Franz Tangala. The midfield pairing of Enrique Lofolomo and Thomas Claes will be tasked with controlling the tempo, supporting an aggressive forward line consisting of Istvan Atrok, Anosike Ementa, Tobias Hedl, and Marley Ake.
Kortrijk searching for a turning point
It has been a challenging start to the season for Kortrijk, who are currently navigating a difficult run of form in the Belgian Pro League. Their most recent outing resulted in a narrow 1-0 defeat against Anderlecht, following a series of losses to Sporting Charleroi, Royal Antwerp, and Club Brugge.
Having struggled to find the back of the net in these league fixtures, the home side will be eager to rediscover the attacking rhythm they displayed during their pre-season friendlies. Securing a result at home is now the primary objective to lift the mood and climb the table.
Zulte Waregem carrying positive momentum
Conversely, Zulte Waregem arrive in high spirits after an unbeaten start to their league campaign. Their most recent performance saw them secure a hard-fought 2-2 draw away at Westerlo, building on a dominant 4-0 victory over SK Beveren and a resilient goalless draw against Union St.Gilloise.
With a win against Genk already under their belts, they have shown an ability to compete against high-level opposition. Their current form suggests a well-drilled side that is proving difficult to break down, providing a stern test for the hosts.
Historical context of the local rivalry
Meetings between these two clubs have historically been high-scoring affairs, often providing plenty of entertainment for spectators. Their last league encounter in February 2023 ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, highlighting the competitive nature of this fixture.
Looking back further, the head-to-head record reflects a series of unpredictable results. While Zulte Waregem claimed a 3-1 win in October 2022, Kortrijk previously enjoyed a commanding 5-0 victory in February 2022, proving that past form can often be set aside when these rivals meet.
Key factors for the match
With no major injury concerns reported for either side, both managers have full squads available to implement their tactical plans. The battle in midfield will likely be the decisive factor, as both teams look to dictate play and create openings for their forward lines.
For Kortrijk, the priority will be defensive discipline to stop Zulte Waregem’s fluid attack, while the visitors will look to maintain their composure and extend their unbeaten run. The atmosphere at the Guldensporenstadion is set to be intense as both teams chase a vital three points.
