Union Saint Gilloise vs Westerlo Prediction: Gilloise continue to fight for a spot in Europe

In round 18 of the Jupiler Pro League, Union Saint Gilloise will play Westerlo at Stade Joseph Marien. Heading into this game, neither team could secure a win in their last league encounter. How will these teams react in this fixture?

Union Saint Gilloise's last league game was against Cercle Brugge away from home, and they settled for a goalless draw. Despite dominating the game with 58 percent of the possession and 11 goals attempted, Union Saint Gilloise failed to convert any of their chances. However, this team has an unbeaten run of games, which has seen them win five of their last nine matches while drawing four. In fact, this team has won each of their last three home games, defeating Antwerp, Gent, and Genk. With 24 points, Union Saint Gilloise sit 7th in the league log, scoring 20 goals while conceding 14. 

Westerlo played Dender the previous weekend and suffered a defeat. In a game that ended 1-0, Nathan Rodes' strike for his side in the 39th minute was enough to hand Westerlo their third defeat in five matches. In other encounters, this team lost to Charleroi and Anderlecht, games that ended 1-0 and 4-1, respectively. In the meantime, while drawing Gent, Westerlo picked up a win over Kortrijk in one of their recent games. Looking at their recent road games, Westerlo have faced defeats in consecutive games, coming against St. Truiden, Westerlo, and Anderlecht. This season, Westerlo have 22 points accumulated from 17 games, leaving them in the 9th spot. 

While Westerlo have not tasted defeat in the last meetings of this fixture, I feel things will go the wrong way this time. While the visiting side had a very good start to the season, their performances in recent times, especially against a strong side, has not ended with good results. While Union Saint Gilloise have not been as dominant as I expected this season, their recent performances have shown signs of competitiveness and readiness. While I expect goals like the past meetings, a win for the home team is also a good option.