Standard Liege — Antwerp : Match Preview and Prediction for October 17,2025

Standard’s Current Form and Home Struggles

Standard Liège enters this match in a highly precarious state, bordering on disarray. The team sits 12th in the league, with recent results speaking volumes: two consecutive defeats before the international break, against Anderlecht and Club Brugge. Their home ground offers no solace; in fact, it seems to add pressure. Supporters at Sclessin haven’t witnessed a victory in three consecutive home games, including a crushing 0-3 defeat to Cercle Brugge. A stubborn statistic underlines their struggle: Standard has failed to win in 12 of their last 13 home fixtures.

Offensive Woes and Statistical Weaknesses

The on-field performance is equally disheartening. Statistics reveal their predicament: 15th in the league for total shots and a dismal last (16th) for shots from inside the box. This highlights severe issues in creating dangerous opportunities. The team simply struggles to convert attacks into meaningful chances, evidenced by a meager 9 goals scored in 10 matches.

Defensive Crisis and Squad Dilemmas

The primary concern, however, is a defensive injury crisis. Head coach Vincent Evrard is left with extremely limited options. Four defenders are sidelined due to injury: David Bates, Daan Dierckx, Boli Bolingoli, and Alejandro Calut. To compound matters, midfielder Ibrahim Karamoko will miss the game due to suspension. Effectively, Standard’s defensive line is in shambles, and this comes ahead of a clash with a historically challenging opponent.

Antwerp’s Resurgence and Coach’s Optimism

Indeed, Antwerp isn’t exactly shining either, currently sitting 13th and without a win in five consecutive matches. However, statistics on paper can be deceiving, and the devil, as always, is in the details. The international break appears to have significantly benefited the team. Head coach Stef Wils has openly expressed his satisfaction with the players’ efforts in training, noting their impressive diligence and renewed focus.

Key Returns and Squad Boost

A crucial factor is the anticipated squad reinforcement. Defender Daam Foulon is expected back in contention, and even more significantly, after a seven-month absence, midfielder Anthony Valencia is set to return to the matchday squad. His reintroduction promises to inject much-needed creativity and attacking versatility, elements that have been sorely missed in recent games. Unlike Standard, which is currently grappling with extensive personnel issues, Antwerp is welcoming back vital talent.

Formidable Away Record and Set-Piece Threat

Despite a lack of outright away victories this season, Antwerp has proven to be an exceptionally tough team to overcome on the road. Statistics confirm this resilience: they have remained undefeated in 14 of their last 19 away matches. This demonstrates the squad’s robust ability to regroup and secure crucial points even in challenging away environments. Moreover, Antwerp consistently ranks among the league leaders in the number of free kicks earned, which is always a potent offensive weapon capable of creating scoring opportunities.