Against Genk, Standard will not have achieved the feat in the Belgian Cup. From now on, the Rouches will have to refocus on the championship and the duel against OHL.
But for Ivan Leko, it will not be particularly easy, especially because of the absences. And it is in defense that the Croatian technician will face the greatest difficulties. When this was pointed out to him at a press conference after the elimination in the Belgian Cup, he declared: “I’m already going to try to get some sleep tonight and I’ll tackle this puzzle tomorrow morning.”
A real headache
Two days before the duel against the Louvanists, things were not very clear for Leko but the solution could ultimately come from the side players. In his rearguard, there could be no less than four to have the same training and therefore to help out more than to evolve in their preferred position.
Does this mean that we need to strengthen ourselves during the winter transfer window? Not necessarily since unlike Anderlecht, for example, it is above all the circumstances which cause Standard to find themselves in this situation. While waiting for the returns to take place, Leko will have to tinker, hoping that this is enough and that it can allow us to win points which should bring the Rouches closer to the top 6.
Arguments to make
Remember that OHL is coming off a big victory against Zulte Waregem and before that a draw against Anderlecht. The thirteenth in the ranking and therefore first club in the playdowns will therefore have arguments to put forward this Saturday evening in Sclessin.
After OHL, there will be a trip to Beerschot, the reception in Ghent and a trip to Mechelen before a winter break which will be reduced compared to previous seasons.
