Club Brugge KV vs Charleroi Match Recap - Nov 22, 2025

Club Brugge KV Overcomes Charleroi in Tactical Battle, Seizing Vital Points

Club Brugge KV secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Charleroi, showcasing their resilience and tactical superiority. This win marks a significant turnaround for Brugge after a disappointing loss to Anderlecht, reaffirming their position as serious contenders in the Jupiler Pro League.

Hans Vanaken emerged as the hero of the match, scoring the decisive goal in the 59th minute. His performance not only highlighted his importance to the team but also underscored Brugge's need for consistent contributions from their star players. Vanaken's ability to find the net when it matters most is a testament to his experience and skill, especially after a stretch where Brugge struggled to convert chances into goals.

Brugge dominated possession with 64%, reflecting their strategy of controlling the game and dictating tempo. This was a stark contrast to their previous match against Anderlecht, where they held similar possession but failed to capitalize on it. The disparity in ball control allowed Brugge to create more opportunities, leading to 17 total shots compared to Charleroi's 7. This offensive pressure was crucial in breaking down Charleroi's defense, which had shown signs of vulnerability in recent matches.

Charleroi's recent form has been inconsistent, and this match continued that trend. Despite a solid defensive display in their last outing against KVC Westerlo, they struggled to maintain that level against Brugge. The lack of shots on goal-0 for Charleroi-illustrates their inability to threaten Brugge's defense effectively. Their reliance on counter-attacks fell flat as Brugge's midfield, led by Vanaken, effectively neutralized any potential threats.

The statistics reveal a concerning pattern for Charleroi. They have now recorded only one win in their last five league matches, with a total of 18 points placing them in ninth position. Their inability to convert possession into meaningful chances has been a recurring issue, as evidenced by their xG of just 0.47 in this match. This lack of offensive output puts immense pressure on their defense, which, despite being solid at times, cannot withstand constant pressure from teams like Brugge.

Brugge's tactical setup under coach Nicky Hayen has shown adaptability, particularly in their formation. The 4-2-3-1 formation allowed them to control the midfield while providing width through their wingers. This approach has been effective in recent matches, and the victory against Charleroi reinforces their tactical acumen. The midfield duo of Raphael Onyedika and Aleksandar Stanković played pivotal roles in maintaining possession and transitioning play, allowing Brugge to dictate the game's pace.

Charleroi's coach Rik De Mil faces challenges in revitalizing his squad. The team's recent performances indicate a need for more creativity and clinical finishing. Players like Parfait Guiagon, who had previously shown promise, were unable to make an impact against Brugge's organized defense. The reliance on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play has hindered Charleroi's ability to compete effectively.

The match statistics further emphasize Brugge's dominance. With 91% pass accuracy, they showcased their ability to maintain possession and build attacks methodically. In contrast, Charleroi's 82% pass accuracy reflects their struggles under pressure, often resorting to long balls that failed to connect with their forwards. This tactical mismatch played a significant role in determining the outcome of the match.

Looking ahead, Brugge will face Antwerp next, where they will aim to build on this momentum and solidify their position near the top of the table. The victory against Charleroi serves as a reminder of their potential when executing their game plan effectively. For Charleroi, the upcoming match against RAAL La Louvière presents an opportunity to regroup and address their offensive shortcomings.

This match encapsulated the ongoing narratives for both teams: Brugge's quest for consistency and Charleroi's struggle for identity. As the season progresses, both teams must adapt and evolve if they hope to achieve their respective goals. For Brugge, this victory is a step towards reclaiming their status as title challengers; for Charleroi, it is a wake-up call that highlights the need for improvement across all facets of their game.