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Jupiler Pro League: KV Kortrijk loses, Cercle Brugge draws

Jupiler Pro League: KV Kortrijk loses, Cercle Brugge draws

In preparation for the new Jupiler Pro League season, KV Kortrijk suffered a defeat against Stade Reims, while Cercle Brugge drew 2-2 against Monaco.

1/8/2026, 17:04:18 · Redacteur EU-affaires

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In the run-up to the upcoming Jupiler Pro League season, Belgium's highest football competition, Belgian clubs have continued their preparations with friendly matches. Recently, KV Kortrijk suffered a defeat against French club Stade Reims on their fan day. At the same time, Cercle Brugge, another Belgian top-tier club, managed to secure a respectable 2-2 draw in an away match against Monaco. These results offer an initial glimpse into the teams' form heading into the start of the competition.

What is happening

KV Kortrijk played a friendly match against Stade Reims on their annual fan day, where supporters get the chance to experience the players and the club up close. This French team proved too strong for the West Flemish club. Details about the exact score and the course of the match are important for an accurate assessment of Kortrijk's current situation. Elsewhere, Cercle Brugge had a friendly encounter with Monaco. The fact that Cercle was able to force a draw against a team of this caliber is promising for the start of the Jupiler Pro League.

Jupiler Pro League preparation

Season preparations are crucial for Belgian clubs. Coaching staff and players use this period to refine tactics, integrate new acquisitions, and build up physical condition. These friendly matches against international opponents such as Stade Reims and Monaco provide a valuable benchmark for the clubs. It allows them to identify strengths and weaknesses before the official competition begins. The Jupiler Pro League is known for its competitive nature, and a good start can make all the difference for the rest of the season.

Background

The Jupiler Pro League is the highest football division in Belgium and includes clubs from various Belgian cities and regions, comprising both Flemish and Walloon teams. Each year, these teams compete for the national title and European qualification spots. The preparation period, often referred to as 'pre-season,' is an essential part of the football cycle. Clubs organize training camps and friendly matches against both national and international opponents to optimally prepare the players. These exhibition matches are not only important from a sporting perspective but also generate revenue and build connections with fans, as seen at KV Kortrijk's fan day.

According to HLN Sport, our top-tier clubs are fully engaged in preparations for the new season.

What this means for Belgium

The performance of Belgian clubs in preparatory matches often serves as a prelude to their chances in the Jupiler Pro League. For KV Kortrijk, the defeat against Stade Reims may prompt a critical evaluation of the squad and tactics. On the other hand, Cercle Brugge's draw against Monaco gives the club and its supporters reason for optimism and confidence for the upcoming season. Both clubs will continue to fine-tune their preparations in the coming weeks. These results influence the expectations of supporters and the media, contributing to the overall dynamic and excitement surrounding the start of the Belgian football competition, organized by the Pro League. Belgian football enthusiasts eagerly await the first matchday.

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