Peter Vandenbempt hails Charleroi and Gent as Jupiler Pro League spark

On a brisk October evening at the Stade du Pays de Charleroi, Peter Vandenbempt watched the Walloon derby unfold, noting the "fresh sounds" from both Charleroi and KAA Gent as the Jupiler Pro League returned after the international break.

Fresh forces in the Jupiler Pro League

The season overview lists Voetbal, Tennis, Formule 1, Basketbal, Veldrijden, Programme and Meer alongside the Jupiler Pro League, Challenger Pro League, Champions League, Europa League and Conference League. After the XL‑interland break, Charleroi and KAA Gent each secured a win, though neither side dazzled. Vandenbempt declared Charleroi the deserved winner of the derby, while also acknowledging the referee controversy at Standard, quoting, "Daar kan ik met mijn verstand niet bij."

He criticised the VAR for not intervening on a non‑flown penalty and the subsequent red card, calling the decision "two times very badly done by the referee". In the second half Charleroi displayed superior possession, control and created several chances, earning Vandenbempt’s approval.

Standard pressed late, with Drammeh missing a clear opportunity after the disputed penalty. Overall, Vandenbempt judged the match not a showcase for the Rouches, describing it as "no good match" for Standard.

De Mil's calm stewardship at Gent

Vandenbempt praised Gent’s coach, Rik De Mil, as an atypical leader who "hits the right note" with his players. De Mil has tackled past problems with excellent organisation, a former Achilles heel for Gent, and oversaw the successful transfer of Christian Burgess.

The coach also managed the long‑term injury of Ngom, who nevertheless became a reliable defensive pillar. Gent’s collective spirit, Vandenbempt noted, is "iron‑strong", conceding four goals in eight matches, with goalkeeper Davy Roef exuding confidence between the posts.

Gent often profit from opponent errors, as seen against Zulte Waregem, and have benefited from a touch of luck in European competition, reinforcing belief within the squad.

Debates on stadium responsibility

Sclessin evoked memories of the covid‑era empty stadiums, prompting Vandenbempt to question the football association’s policy of closing entire grounds for the actions of a few hooligans. He called the principle of collective responsibility "disproportionate and unsustainable".

He argued that clubs, the government and police know exactly who the troublemakers are and that decisive action, punishment and monitoring are required to resolve the issue permanently.