Belgian teams in Europe: can they navigate the challenges ahead?

With the draws for the European competitions finalized, Belgium's top football clubs are gearing up for some intense battles on the continent. From the bright lights of the Champions League to the less forgiving fields of the Europa and Conference Leagues, our teams face a mix of daunting opponents and golden opportunities. 

Here’s a realistic look at how Club Brugge, Union Saint-Gilloise, Anderlecht, KAA Gent, and Cercle Brugge might fare in their respective campaigns.

Club Brugge

Opponents in the first stage of the Champions League: 

Sporting Lisbon, Celtic, Aston Villa, Sturm Graz, Dortmund, Manchester City, Juventus, AC Milan

Club Brugge faces a tough challenge in the Champions League, with big names like Manchester City, Juventus, and AC Milan standing in their way. While it's going to be difficult, not all of their opponents are unbeatable. If Brugge can collect enough points, particularly at home, they might just squeeze through to the knockout stages or at least earn a spot in the play-offs. It’s not going to be easy, but there’s a fighting chance.
 

Union Saint-Gilloise

Opponents in the first stage of the Europa League:

AS Roma, Rangers FC, Sporting Braga, Fenerbahce, Bodø/Glimt, Midtjylland, OCG Nice, FC Twente

Union has quite some work to do in the Europa League. Facing experienced teams like AS Roma and Rangers FC in this new format is a big ask, and they’ll need to be at their very best to make an impact. However, Union has surprised us before, and under Pocognoli’s guidance, they could channel that unpredictable spirit again. It’s a tough road ahead, but writing them off completely would be a mistake.
 

Anderlecht

Opponents in the first stage of the Europa League:

FC Porto, Slavia Praha, Ferencváros, Real Sociedad, Ludogorets, Viktoria Plzeň, Hoffenheim and RFS

Anderlecht seems to have a slightly more favourable draw compared to Union, but they still need to step up their game. Their opponents may not be as daunting, but Anderlecht has struggled with consistency. The return of Leander Dendoncker could be a huge boost, and if they find their form, they have a solid shot at progressing. It won’t be a walk in the park, but the opportunity is there for the taking.
 

KAA Gent

Opponents in the first stage of the Conference League:

Chelsea, Molde, Omonoia, Lugano, TSC, Larne

Gent has arguably one of the toughest challenges in the Conference League, with Chelsea in their group. But aside from that, they have the ability to make a strong showing. The departure of talented winger Pardo to Lille might be a blow, but Gent has enough quality to compete and possibly advance. They’ll need to bring their A-game, especially in the matches outside of Chelsea, to make it happen.
 

Cercle Brugge

Opponents in the first stage of the Conference League:

LASK, Başakşehir, Olimpija, Hearts, St. Gallen, Víkingur R.

Last, but not least, Cercle has very beatable opponents, which should give them a decent shot at progressing. However, their recent form has been shaky, highlighted by a disappointing loss to Wisła Kraków at home. They’ll need to rediscover the momentum they had last season if they want to make it through. If they can find their groove, advancing is definitely within reach.
 

Belgium’s teams have varying challenges ahead, but each has a path to success if they can play to their strengths and maintain focus.