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Standard vs. Charleroi – Francis N’Ganga: “A Derby Remains a Derby”

Belgian Pro League Kicks Off with Fiery Walloon Derby

The Belgian Pro League returns to action this Friday night with a fiery Walloon derby, as Standard Liège host Sporting Charleroi in a match that promises high tension both on and off the pitch.

For Standard Liège, this marks a fresh chapter, while Charleroi, led by new captain Francis N’Ganga, are entering the season with a quietly determined mindset despite losing several key players during the winter transfer window.

But all eyes will be on N’Ganga, who is set to return to the scene of a painful memory. The Congolese international suffered a serious knee injury during the last derby at Sclessin and was subject to jeers from the home crowd. His controversial response—a raised middle finger—only intensified the rivalry.

Now fully recovered from a cruciate ligament injury, N’Ganga is eager to lead his team back into the fray, undeterred by the expected hostility from the stands.

“If I’m booed or jeered, it won’t bother me,” N’Ganga told Belgian daily La Dernière Heure. “They are not my supporters, and it won’t affect me—unless it crosses the line into discrimination, as it did last time. That’s what pushed me to react. A derby is a derby: if my supporters don’t like Standard, then neither do I.”

His message is unequivocal. “Between me and the Liège fans, it doesn’t work. I won’t shake hands or swap shirts with anyone. I’m focused on my team and the result.”

Having endured months of rehabilitation, the experienced left-back is ready to reassert himself, physically and mentally. “If their players want to provoke me, I’ll be ready for them,” he said. “I’ve played in hostile environments with the national team before. I know what to expect.”

With emotions running high and a fierce rivalry reignited, the opening fixture of the Belgian top flight promises fireworks. For Charleroi and their defiant captain, this is more than a game—it’s a statement.

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