The Belgian Championship playoffs are the climax of the season, where the best teams battle for the title and European spots. If you’re wondering how the playoffs work, who’s in the mix, and when the games are, this guide has you covered.
After the regular season, the top six clubs enter the championship playoff. They start with half the points they earned during the league – rounded up – and play each other twice, home and away. The team with the most points at the end wins the league and a spot in the Champions League.
Teams finishing 7th to 12th go into a separate Europa League playoff. They are split into two groups, play a mini‑league, and the group winners face the 5th‑placed team from the championship playoff for a Europa League qualifying slot.
This season the usual suspects are back. Club Brugge, Anderlecht and Gent are all in the top six and have strong squads. Club Brugge’s defence has been rock‑solid, while Anderlecht’s attack is clicking after a busy transfer window. Gent brings a mix of youth and experience that can surprise anyone.
Don’t overlook the dark horses. Teams like KV Mechelen and Standard Liège have shown they can pull off upsets, and their fans love a good underdog story. Their recent form suggests they could take points off the bigger clubs.
The playoff kicks off in early May and runs until the end of the month. Matches are spread across the country, with most games played on weekends to maximise TV audiences. You can catch live coverage on the national broadcaster and on major streaming platforms that carry Belgian football.
If you prefer being in the stadium, tickets go on sale a week before each match. Prices vary by club and seat location, but most clubs offer family packages and early‑bird discounts. Check the club’s official website for the latest availability.
The headline clash is the Club Brugge vs Anderlecht duel. Both teams are close on points, and a win for either could decide the title. Expect a tight game, with Brugge leaning on defensive discipline and Anderlecht looking to exploit set‑pieces.
Gent’s showdown with KV Mechelen is another match to watch. Gent’s midfield depth gives them an edge, but Mechelen’s counter‑attacking style can catch them off‑guard. A draw would keep the race wide open.
Overall, Club Brugge’s consistency gives them a slight edge, but the playoffs are unpredictable. A single bad result can swing the title, so expect drama right up to the final whistle.
Beyond TV, you can follow live stats on the league’s official app. The app sends goal alerts, team line‑ups and real‑time standings. Social media accounts of the clubs also post behind‑the‑scenes content, which adds a fun layer for fans.
Whether you’re a seasoned supporter or new to Belgian football, the playoffs deliver excitement, tension and lots of goals. Keep this guide handy, plan your match‑day, and enjoy the ride.
21 Sep
Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare has been a decisive force for KRC Genk in the Belgian Championship playoffs, netting four goals since the split and keeping the club in contention despite a dip in form. A recent winner against Gent broke a winless streak and lifted morale ahead of the final home game. Genk slipped from top spot after April defeats, now trailing Union SG and Club Brugge but still holding a slim chance. Arokodare’s season tally of 21 goals earned him the Ebony Shoe award, underscoring his impact.