Union’s rising star Chibani starts as Vroman guards OH Leuven’s goal

Union arrive at the 16:00 kick‑off against OH Leuven buoyed by a provisional third‑place finish, while the Leuven side grapple with a season‑long scoring drought that has left them with just five goals in seven league games.

Chibani earns his first start for Union

Coach David Hubert confirmed that midfielder Chibani will start for Union, replacing several unavailable players including S Choofs, Zorgane, Kricfalusi, Hurtevent and Rodriguez. The 22‑year‑old has only featured for a quarter of a hour in the recent Europa League win over Viktoria Pilsen, making today his debut in the domestic competition.

Hubert praised Chibani’s potential, stating that the youngster is “ready to prove himself” and that the squad is 100 percent fit despite a few lingering injuries.

Vroman steps between the posts for OH Leuven

Goalkeeper Kiany Vroman replaces Van den Heuvel, who suffered a serious knock two days ago and could not be made fit. Coach Timmy Simons noted that the team has had to adjust physically, but the available players are fully prepared.

Vroman’s inclusion follows a reshuffle that also sees Verstraete move to the bench and the injured Traoré out, with Balikwisha and Lakomy added to the starting eleven.

Union’s unbeaten run and league context

After seven matches Union remain unbeaten in the Jupiler Pro League, recording five consecutive victories since a draw with Essevee. Only Zulte Waregem have managed to take two points from the Brussels club; the other six fixtures have all ended in wins.

Direct rivals KAA Gent and Club Brugge have both secured victories, cementing Union’s provisional third‑place standing.

OH Leuven’s offensive struggles

Leuven’s last league outing against La Louvière ended 0‑0, keeping their tally of conceded goals at thirteen. In seven league matches the team has scored merely five times, a figure matched only by KV Kortrijk for low scoring.

Despite the poor return, the club celebrated a 1‑0 win over La Louvière three weeks ago, breaking a five‑match losing streak and sparking a brief resurgence.

The upcoming clash will test whether Union can extend its winning streak and whether Vroman can help Leuven find the net against a side that has kept clean sheets in three home games at the Joseph Marienstadion.