AS Monaco will face Bruges this Thursday as part of their first Champions League match, a crucial move to start the competition. Bruges qualified for this European phase after overcoming the dams by beating Salzburg and Glasgow Rangers, with a spectacular 6-0 victory in the second round. Despite a promising start to the European Cup season, the Belgian team is currently in fifth place in the national championship, and has recently suffered a defeat against Louveirenne. The match will be arbitrated by Simone Sozza, with Alessio Berti, Davide Imperiale and Davide Massa as assistants, and Alessandro Di Paolo and Carlos del Cerro Grande in VAR support.

Bruges’ state of mind remains difficult to identify. The team is rich in individual talents, which could be a major asset, but lacks tactical cohesion. There is often good agreement within the group, but the lack of a precise game pattern and ball circulation is obvious. Low-conventional positions, such as Biereth’s midfielder, highlight these challenges. This tactical uncertainty weighs on the team’s collective performance.

This Champions League match will therefore be exciting, carrying a strong emotional burden for players and fans. A successful campaign would benefit both emotionally and financially the club. The outcome of this first game will be decisive for Bruges’ future in the competition. The wait is great, and the answer to the question of Bruges’ ability to perform in the Champions League will be known on Thursday.