Gent
PREDICTED SCORE
2-1
Zulte Waregem
Gent
Zulte Waregem
Based on the current Gent vs Zulte Waregem prediction, the market appears to undervalue the impact of Zulte's recent managerial sacking and their abysmal away record (only 2 wins on the road all season). Gent is priced as a clear favorite, but the real value lies in the goal markets given Zulte's defensive leaks.
| Selection | Confidence | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Gent Win & Over 1.5 Goals | 8/10 | Zulte Waregem is in freefall with an interim coach and a defense that has conceded 2+ goals in 3 of their last 5 matches. |
Betting Tip: While a straight home win is the safest play, pairing it with "Over 1.5 Goals" offers better odds for bettors looking to capitalize on Zulte's current defensive crisis and Gent's recent scoring form.
Match Preview & Form Guide
As we approach Round 29 of the Jupiler Pro League, KAA Gent welcomes Zulte Waregem to the Planet Group Arena on March 13, 2026. This fixture carries significant weight for both sides: Gent is battling to solidify a spot in the European playoff places (currently sitting 7th), while Zulte Waregem is fighting for survival, hovering just one point above the relegation playoff zone.
Gent enters this clash with renewed momentum following a convincing 3-1 victory over KV Mechelen. Under manager Ivan Leko, the "Buffaloes" have shown resilience at home, though their overall form has been inconsistent (W-L-L-W-L). Conversely, Zulte Waregem is a club in turmoil. Following a 0-1 defeat to Standard Liege on March 8, the board sacked Sven Vandenbroeck. Interim coach Steve Colpaert takes the reins of a squad that has suffered four consecutive defeats and managed only two wins in their last 16 outings.
Key Team News:
- Gent: Missing Mathias Delorge (ankle) and Hyllarion Goore (muscle). Matisse Samoise remains a major doubt with a knee injury.
- Zulte Waregem: Will be without defensive mainstay Laurent Lemoine and midfielder Serxho Ujka. They will rely heavily on top scorer Jeppe Erenbjerg (9 goals) to provide a spark.
Tactical Analysis & Key Battles
Expect Ivan Leko to deploy a high-pressing system designed to exploit Zulte’s fragile confidence. Gent’s ability to transition quickly through the midfield has been their primary weapon this season. The tactical battle will likely center on whether Zulte Waregem’s interim leadership chooses to sit deep and absorb pressure or attempt a "new manager bounce" by playing more expansively.
The key battle will be between Gent’s clinical front line and Zulte’s defensive pairing of Anton Tanghe and Benoit Nyssen. Zulte has conceded 44 goals this season, and their inability to defend set-pieces could be their undoing against a Gent side that excels in aerial duels. For the visitors, Anosike Ementa remains the primary outlet; if he is isolated by Gent’s back three, Zulte will struggle to find a way back into the game.