Analysts have raised concerns about the limited attacking threat from the flanks of RSC Anderlecht ahead of their key Europa League match against Olympique Lyon. The criticism emerged on the television programme 'Tijd voor Voetbal', where Jonathan Lange and William Dutoit dissected the team's prospects.

Jonathan Lange was direct in his assessment. "Wat mij betreft zijn de flanken van Anderlecht aanvallend te beperkt," the analyst said. He explained that a solid defensive structure is not enough if the team cannot maintain possession in attack. "If it continues like this, I think it will become difficult for Anderlecht, even at home," Lange added. He stressed the team must improve their game for the European challenges ahead.

Context

The analysis comes as Anderlecht prepare for the Europa League League Phase. The Brussels club currently sits seventh in the Jupiler Pro League with ten points from six matches. Their recent form shows three wins, one draw, and one defeat in their last five league games. The latest victory was a 0-1 away win at KV Mechelen, thanks to a goal from Tawfik Bentayeb in the forty-third minute. A full overview of results and upcoming fixtures is available.

William Dutoit offered a nuanced perspective, pointing to a historical trend. "We weten dat Franse teams het de laatste tijd moeilijk hebben tegen Pro League-clubs," Dutoit said. He referenced Club Brugge's 4-0 win over Monaco in a previous season as an example. This observation provides some hope for the home game against Lyon, scheduled for Wednesday.

Challenge

The concern over the flanks is a direct signal for coach Brian Riemer. Anderlecht have scored four goals and conceded five this season. The team trails league leaders Union St. Gilloise by six points. The next test is a home match against fifth-placed Zulte Waregem on September 19. The injury to Lucas Hey, currently sidelined, complicates selection options. The current squad and stats pages offer more insight into available resources.

Lange concluded with a warning about the stadium atmosphere. "We weten wat er op dit soort avonden in het stadion van Anderlecht kan gebeuren," he said, alluding to the club's European history. The pressure is now on the players to make the attacking line more effective for the clash against the French top side.

This story first appeared at voetbalprimeur.be