The remarkable performances of the Union and the Club de Bruges in the Champions League have generated immense joy among Belgian football fans, far beyond mere sporting results. These victories had a positive impact on Belgium’s coefficient, allowing it to gain an additional 0.8 points in the standings. This coefficient is crucial because it determines the number of places available for European competitions. Currently eighth, Belgium has a direct qualification for the group phase of the Champions League and a participation in the third preliminary round. An ascent to sixth place would pave the way for two direct qualifications, although this ambition seems difficult to achieve given the continued presence of Dutch and Portuguese clubs in Europa League and Conference League competitions.
The current situation is complicated by the absence of Belgian clubs in the Conference League, with the exception of Racing Genk, which participates in the Europa League. It is important to note that the coefficient is calculated over the last five seasons, a factor that will be changed next season, putting Belgium at a disadvantage. As a result, Belgium’s virtual ranking for next season temporarily placed it in sixth place. This situation underscores the importance of the current struggle to secure a second direct qualification in the Champions League, a prospect that promises to be intense in the coming months.
Faced with this situation, Genk’s club is aware of the need to react after a defeat against Charleroi. Coach Matte Smets stresses the importance of maintaining the motivation and cohesion of the group, particularly before the next match against the Union SG, a team in full confidence after his victory in the Champions League. Genk hopes to take advantage of this opportunity to create surprise and narrow the current nine-point gap with the Union, while avoiding its becoming more important. The club’s programme, with matches in the Europa League, requires great determination and rigorous preparation to achieve its objectives.