Match preview
Antwerp return to Bosuilstadion on December 27 with momentum and an attacking edge that has defined their recent weeks. The hosts sit eighth in the Pro League table after 19 matches, collecting 24 points via six wins, six draws and seven defeats. Antwerp’s run includes convincing wins over Gent and Genk in December and a 2-2 home draw with Anderlecht as their most recent outing, demonstrating an ability to score while also conceding on occasions. Their home numbers are eye-catching: 17 goals scored at Bosuilstadion and a high Both Teams To Score (BTTS) home rate of 80%, which suggests games involving Antwerp at home tend to be open and entertaining.
Zulte-Waregem arrive in Deurne under a different rhythm. Tenth in the standings with 23 points, they have been hard to beat in the recent stretch — more often grinding out draws than racking up wins. Their form line shows a preponderance of stalemates and only one victory in the last ten, and a recent 2-0 loss to Union Saint-Gilloise is a reminder of defensive fragility, particularly away from home where they have conceded 15 goals in 19 matches. Zulte’s away BTTS percentage is 58%, and overall they sit on 25 goals scored and 27 conceded, confirming a side that will produce chances but can be exposed at the back.
What the numbers tell us
Statistically the tie leans toward Antwerp. The bookies mirror that sentiment, pricing the home win at 2.00 with a 50% implied probability, while the draw and away win drift out to 3.40 and 3.60 respectively. Antwerp’s attacking output at home — coupled with Zulte-Waregem’s tendency to draw and to concede on the road — fuels confidence in an Antwerp victory. Both teams create chances; Antwerp averages 91.84 attacks per game and 38.58 dangerous attacks, while Zulte-Waregem’s figures show they can push forward too, which supports the expectation of an open contest. The last head-to-head in September saw Zulte beat Antwerp 2-0, so revenge and home advantage add narrative spice to this fixture.
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Betting suggestion
The clearest single-market play here is a 1X2 selection: back Antwerp to win at 2.00. Home comfort, recent attacking form and a favorable BTTS environment make the home victory the most probable outcome. For those preferring a goals-focused punt, BTTS looks tempting given Antwerp’s 80% BTTS home rate and Zulte’s tendency to be involved in open affairs away — but the primary pick remains Antwerp to win.
