Genk - Gent predictions and free betting tips [02/06/2024]

On Sunday, June 2, Genk will host Gent in the Belgian Championship playoffs. The home team finished fifth in the playoff group standings, while Gent topped their group and are now fighting for a spot in the Conference League.

Stadium

The match will take place at Crystal Arena in Genk.

Genk

Genk had a disappointing end to the season, suffering five defeats in their last six league matches – against Club Brugge (4:0 and 0:3), Cercle Brugge (4:1), Anderlecht (2:1), and Union Saint-Gilloise (2:0) in their most recent game. Their sole triumph came with a narrow 1-0 victory over Antwerp, thanks to Zekiri's lone goal.

Overall, they've conceded 15 goals and scored just three in this period. It's crucial to note that the white-blues stood only fifth in the final standings, collecting 37 points in 10 European Cup group matches. Additionally, there was a managerial change last month; Domenico Olivieri was appointed as the interim head coach after Wouter Vrancken's dismissal due to poor results. Adding to their woes, Genk has only accumulated three points from five away games – the second worst after Anderlecht. 

Gent

Gent, meanwhile, couldn't secure a spot in the elite European Cup group, competing instead against modest teams like Mechelen, Sint-Truiden, Leuven, Standard, and Westerlo. It's no surprise that they topped the group effortlessly, qualifying for the Conference League playoffs with a nine-point lead over Mechelen, winning eight out of their 10 matches and losing only twice.

The white-blues ended their domestic campaign on a high, defeating Standard Liège (1:4) and Sint-Truiden at home (2:0). In the latter match, Samoise opened the scoring in the 48th minute, and Fernandez-Pardo sealed the win late in the game. Interestingly, head coach Hein Vanhaezebrouck’s contract expires at the season's end, and it has been confirmed he will leave by mutual agreement. 

Head-to-Head

This season, the teams met twice in the league, both resulting in draws (1:1 and 2:2). Notably, Genk has won just once in their last six home encounters.

Prediction for Genk vs Gent

Eight wins in the last 10 head-to-head matches give Gent the edge, especially given Genk's struggles with five losses in the previous six games. Moreover, Gent has won three consecutive away games and are in great form. Therefore, I'll back Hein Vanhaezebrouck’s side with a handicap of 0.

Total Goals Prediction

Genk conceded 15 goals in their last six matches across all competitions, whereas Gent failed to score more than once in only one of their last seven games. Confidently bet on Gent's ITO of more than 1 goal.

Corner Kicks Prediction

Both teams are motivated to secure a Conference League spot and boast several tall players, so I'll back the total corners to be more than 9.5.

Yellow Cards Prediction

Both teams will give their all with a Conference League spot at stake. Confidently bet on the total yellow cards to be more than 3.5.

Score Prediction

I'll place a bet on a 1:2 scoreline in favour of Gent.