“A derby is always a special match that we have to play with passion – just as we should, incidentally, in every match. Our main aim is, first and foremost, to focus on our football, to build on our progress and to approach the match in such a way that we win it. To achieve that, we must, above all, maintain discipline,” said head coach Felice Mazzù at the pre-match press conference.

Antoine Lejoly: “Staying focused for 90 minutes”

The start to the season has gone differently for both teams. KAS Eupen have picked up nine points from four matches, whilst RFC Liège have already played five times and have five points to their name so far: “Liège remain a good squad that we should be wary of,” said new signing Antoine Lejoly, who has made two appearances following goalkeeper Marco Hiller’s injury and who has played 22 professional matches for RFC Liège during his career. “RFC Liège will bounce back sooner or later, and that could well happen this weekend. The danger could come from standard situations or quick counter-attacks, so we must take the match seriously and remain fully focused for the full 90 minutes,” added the goalkeeper.

A formidable attacking opponent

Manager Felice Mazzù also expects a formidable attacking opponent: “Liège are a team who love to play football; who play deep into the opposition’s half and field players with great individual quality. We need to be wary of that. The 4–4 draw against Club NXT showed that they attack very openly, creating spaces that Club NXT exploited. We must try to do the same.”

Chris-Kévin Nadje remains sidelined

Midfielder Chris-Kévin Nadje, who was absent last week due to injury, will also miss the derby against RFC Liège. According to Felice Mazzù, all other players are available for selection.