Given the league positions of both teams, neither side will be satisfied with a draw in this fixture.

Cercle Brugge are currently in the relegation zone, while Genk are underperforming and sitting in the lower part of the table. Genk, in particular, will be eager to collect all three points as they aim to break into the top six, which would secure a place in the Championship Group and potential European qualification. At present, the gap to the top six stands at six points, increasing the pressure to win.

A notable trend favors goals from the visitors: in their last five away visits to Genk, Cercle Brugge have managed to score on every occasion.

Another key factor is Genk’s defensive record at home. They have conceded 16 goals in just 10 home matches, which suggests vulnerabilities that Cercle Brugge can exploit.