The Jupiler Pro League returns this Friday with Matchday 5 of the 2025/26 season.
There may not be many big clashes on the schedule, but several fixtures look decisive for the table, which is already starting to take shape. Among them, Royal Antwerp take on KV Mechelen in a duel between 5th and 7th place, separated by just two points.
Other games to watch include league leaders Union Saint-Gilloise travelling to newly-promoted La Louvière, as well as Standard Liège hosting Cercle Brugge. At the bottom of the table, a crucial early-season battle will see Dender face OH Leuven, with both sides desperate for their first win of the campaign.
Check out our bet on football predictions for some of the key matches in Matchday 5 of the Jupiler Pro League, along with the latest football betting odds on our sportsbook. Don’t forget you can also use our Cash Out option to secure your winnings before the final whistle.
Royal Antwerp vs KV Mechelen: Both teams to score @ 1.63
Royal Antwerp remain solid at home but have shown signs of defensive weakness, conceding in every game so far this season. Mechelen, on the other hand, boasts an in-form attack, led by Mrabti and Lauberbach. With only two points separating the sides in the table, both clubs are aiming for a top-four push. An open game is expected, especially since recent stats suggest goals at both ends. In each of their last three encounters, both teams have found the net.
Standard Liège vs Cercle Brugge: Draw @ 3.50
Standard have been inconsistent in the opening weeks of the season. Despite showing glimpses of attractive, attacking football, the Liège side often struggle to convert their chances. Cercle Brugge, meanwhile, have looked relatively solid at the back but still lack a cutting edge in the final third. With both teams chasing consistency and every point valuable in the race for the top half of the table, a hard-fought draw looks like the most likely outcome.
La Louvière vs Union Saint-Gilloise: Over 2.5 goals @ 2.35
Newly-promoted La Louvière are still adjusting to the pace and intensity of top-flight football, having already conceded 9 goals in their first 4 matches. They now face Union Saint-Gilloise, who sit comfortably at the top thanks to their prolific attack (11 goals scored). The Brussels side moves the ball quickly in transition and can rely on Raul Florucz to finish chances. While La Louvière could grab a goal with the backing of their home fans, Union should dominate the scoreboard. Expect a high-scoring encounter.
Dender to beat OH Leuven @ 2.10
After four rounds, Dender and OH Leuven sit bottom of the table with 2 and 1 points respectively, and neither side has managed to claim a victory yet. Both teams have struggled to find rhythm and confidence in their play. However, Dender has shown glimpses of promise at home, notably holding Cercle Brugge to a draw on the opening day. Against an OH Leuven side with the worst defensive record in the league so far (12 goals conceded), this could be the perfect chance for Dender to finally grab their first win and lift themselves off the bottom.
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