Marc Coucke joins Anderlecht’s daring Europa League trek to Greece

Owner Marc Coucke travelled with RSC Anderlecht as the Belgian side embarked on a third‑round Europa League tie in Greece, facing PAOK Saloniki at the notorious Toumba stadium. The journey is described as both a daunting challenge and a vital mission for the purple‑white club.

In the third qualifying round of the Europa League, Anderlecht confronts a "aartsmoeilijke" but life‑changing away match against Greek PAOK Saloniki. The fixture is set in the feared ‘hell of Toumba’, where securing a strong result could shape the return leg.

Shortly after noon, the full Anderlecht squad boarded a plane for Greece, marking the first time in a long while that players and technical staff travelled together with owner Marc Coucke. Coucke arrived in his trademark purple blazer, adding a visual boost for the team.

Coach Vitor Bruno hopes the presence of the owner sharpens his troops ahead of the encounter. Kan the Paars‑wit side find a good starting position in the infamous ‘hell of Toumba’? The question hangs over the squad as they seek to dictate terms for the second leg.