Arnaud Bodart says Standard must find extra drive in closed‑door games

Goalkeeper Arnaud Bodart recounts how he endured three Jupiler Pro League matches behind closed doors with Standard, citing the fixtures against Cercle Bruges on 5 February 2022, Gent on 27 February 2022 and OH Leuven on 6 April 2024, all imposed for disciplinary reasons.

Closed‑door matches test motivation

Arnaud Bodart says the absence of supporters forces players to search deeper for motivation. “Il faut aller chercher un peu plus loin la motivation,” he told the club’s media channel. He added that the silence in the stadium makes the game feel like a training session rather than a competition. The goalkeeper believes the mental challenge is greater than the physical one.

Bodart bluntly described the experience: “Le huis clos ce n'est pas du foot, c'est nul.” He argued that without fans the atmosphere lacks the competitive edge that drives performance. The sentiment was echoed by teammates who miss the crowd’s energy.

The club recently staged a friendly against Lens, winning 2‑0 at the French side’s training centre on Friday. Captain Marlon Fossey told his teammates, “Ça va être le même type de match contre Charleroi, sans fan.” The statement highlighted the upcoming Jupiler Pro League clash with Charleroi, which will also be played behind closed doors.

Preparation and club response

Standard’s routine does not change dramatically for a match without spectators. Players focus on sleep the night before and proper nutrition, ensuring physical readiness. Comment on the mental side, Bodart explained that players must generate their own adrenaline, a task that is harder “sur” a quiet pitch.

Frédéric Bleus, the club’s spokesperson, confirmed that the three disciplinary closed‑door games – against Cercle Bruges, Gent and OH Leuven – were part of a broader effort to curb fan misconduct. He stressed that the Jupiler Pro League will continue to enforce measures to protect the integrity of the competition. The club hopes that the lessons learned will reduce the need for future matches without supporters.

Looking ahead, Standard will reposition certain supporters for the upcoming partial closed‑door fixture against Antwerp, simultaneously launching a campaign to raise awareness among fans about limiting disturbances. The club hopes the measures will prevent further matches without crowds, reinforcing the importance of supporter presence for the team’s morale.

In Bodart’s view, the contrast between a packed stadium and an empty arena “c’est” a reminder that football thrives on its supporters. He believes Standard must adapt by finding internal drive, lest future matches feel like mere exhibitions. The goalkeeper’s candid remarks underline the psychological stakes of playing in silence.