Expect Anderlecht to line up in their usual 4-3-3, with the full-backs pushing high and the wide forwards cutting inside to create overloads in the half-spaces. Their midfield three will dominate the centre of the park, and they will look to play through the lines with quick, incisive passing. Waasland-Beveren, by contrast, are expected to set up in a 4-2-3-1, with the double pivot sitting deep to protect the back four. They will try to make themselves compact, force Anderlecht wide, and then hit on the counter through the number ten and the lone striker.

The key battle will be in midfield. Anderlecht's three will look to control possession and dictate the tempo, while Waasland-Beveren's two holding midfielders will try to screen the defence and break up play. If Anderlecht can move the ball quickly and pull those two out of position, they will find space between the lines. If Waasland-Beveren can stay disciplined and deny those pockets, they can frustrate the visitors and keep the game tight. But Anderlecht have the quality to be patient, and they have the weapons to unlock a low block.

Set pieces could also play a part. Anderlecht have the physical presence to cause problems from corners and free-kicks, and Waasland-Beveren will need to be alert to second balls and loose clearances. The visitors are also dangerous on the counter themselves, so if Waasland-Beveren push too many men forward, they will get punished. This is a game where Anderlecht should control the tempo, and the longer it stays 0-0, the more the pressure builds on the home side.