The final playoff picture is taking shape in Belgium, with Antwerp securing a spot in the European Play Offs after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Standard Liege on Sunday, March 16, 2026. While a Champions’ Play Off berth proved elusive this season, the team is now focused on maximizing their opportunity in the European competition.
Rollercoaster Ride to the Top Six
Antwerp entered the season with clear ambitions: a top-six finish and a coveted place in the Champions’ Play Offs. Both Sven Jacques and Marc Overmars publicly stated this goal. However, as the season progressed, achieving that target became increasingly challenging.
After finishing 14th in the league during the first half of the season, the club’s leadership made a change, relieving Wils of his duties as head coach. Oosting took over just days later. A top-six finish seemed out of reach at that point, but a dramatic shift in form quickly changed the narrative.
Antwerp went on to record impressive victories against Club Brugge, RC Genk, KAA Gent, and Zulte Waregem, while also advancing to the semi-finals of the cup and earning a 2-2 draw against Anderlecht. After 20 matchdays, Antwerp found themselves level on points with the sixth-place team, mounting a remarkable comeback. Was a top-six finish still within reach?
First Time Since 2018
Despite the resurgence, Antwerp’s form dipped again, causing them to slide down the standings. They entered their match against Standard already guaranteed a place in the European Play Offs. The 1-1 draw against the Rouches sealed their fate. For the first time since 2018 – when they were a newly promoted side – Antwerp will not compete in Play Off 1.
Read More… After another setback, Guillaume Gillet is remarkably clear about Standard›
Now, the focus shifts to winning the European Play Offs. “We are now aiming for one spot, and that is to win the European Play Offs. If you don’t do that, you might as well stop,” declared captain Vincent Janssen, rallying his teammates.
Head coach Oosting and goalkeeper Nozawa offered a more measured response. “We need to show who we are,” said Nozawa. Oosting added, “The ambition is different from the objective. But the ambition is definitely to win the European Play Offs.”
