Football Season Guide

La Louvière made history last season. They secured their first-ever top flight experience with what was a very consistent campaign. Edged Molenbeek by just 2 points to grab the second spot. Had the fewest defeats in Division One, only 3 in 28 rounds, and the second-best defence – 24 goals in 28 games. Captain Faye, Maisonneuve and Lamego were formidable trio at the back all season. All 3 are staying put and eager to continue dominating inside their own penalty area. Coach Frédéric Taquin has been in charge for 8 consecutive years now. After the promotion he was officially labelled a club legend, so he has the backing of everyone no matter what the season ahead might bring. He has never coached at top-flight level before so he too is a debutant. Mouhamed Belkheir scored 14 goals last season and he will be a key figure again. None of the regular starters from the previous campaign has left so far. This with the few interesting new additions made turns La Louvière into an even better team. Of the new arrivals winger Théo Epailly, holding midfielder Alexis Beka Beka and right-back Darío Benavides have the best chance of becoming regular starters. Striker Ryan Safari is also an interesting new signing. He averaged 20+ goals in back-to-back seasons at U23 level for champions Union. Now he will get plenty of chances and could easily become the breakthrough young star of the entire league.