Preview: Belgian Cup Clash Pits Top-Flight Antwerp Against Resurgent RAAL

BRUSSELS (Interstat) — A compelling David vs. Goliath matchup headlines the Belgian Cup round of 16 on Tuesday as first-division powerhouse Royal Antwerp FC hosts second-division RAAL La Louvière.

The game at Antwerp’s Bosuilstadion pits the reigning Belgian Pro League champions against a lower-league side riding a wave of confidence and notable upsets.

RAAL La Louvière, currently in the Challenger Pro League, enters the contest in strong form. They are on a three-game winning streak across all competitions, most recently defeating Patro Eisden 2-1 at home on Jan. 4. Their cup run has been built on road victories, including a 2-1 win at top-flight side Beerschot VAC on Dec. 2 and a 2-1 triumph at KSK Heist in October.

Royal Antwerp, meanwhile, looks to rebound from a stumble in its last outing. The Giants were held to a 3-3 home draw by K. Sint-Truidense VV on Dec. 3. Their previous match was a more characteristic 3-1 league victory over KAS Eupen on Oct. 29.

Despite the clear disparity in divisions and resources, a projection by Interstat’s game simulator adds intrigue, forecasting a 2-1 victory for the visiting underdogs.

The match represents a classic cup confrontation: Antwerp’s established stars against the momentum and fearlessness of a lower-league contender. RAAL will rely on its proven cup pedigree and road resilience, while Antwerp aims to leverage its top-tier quality and home advantage to avoid a major shock.

Kickoff is scheduled for 8:45 p.m. local time (1945 GMT) on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026.