Anderlecht face Hammarby in Europa League qualifier on July 23

Royal Sporting Club Anderlecht will travel to Sweden on July 23 to face Hammarby IF in the Europa League second qualifying round. The Belgian club, who finished fourth in their domestic league, were drawn against the Stockholm side, currently fourth in the Swedish Allsvenskan. Hammarby IF secured second place in both the 2024 and 2025 Allsvenskan seasons, maintaining their strong domestic form ahead of the European tie.

Last season, Anderlecht’s Europa League campaign ended in the qualifying rounds against Swedish opposition. They defeated BK Hacken 1-0 at home before losing 2-1 in Gothenburg, then falling in a penalty shoot-out. Their second attempt at European football via the UEFA Europa Conference League also concluded early, with a defeat to AEK Athens over two legs.

Managerial uncertainty surrounds Anderlecht as they head into the tie. The club has yet to appoint a permanent head coach, adding pressure to the squad’s preparations. Club officials confirmed ongoing negotiations with several candidates, with a decision expected before the qualifier.

Squad overhaul is another priority for Anderlecht this summer. Multiple players have already departed, with further departures anticipated before the transfer window closes. The club’s sporting director stated that the incoming transfers would strengthen the team for both domestic and European competition.

Hammarby IF, meanwhile, enter the match in confident form. Their recent league performances and home advantage in the first leg could prove decisive. The Swedish club has not lost at home in their last 12 Allsvenskan fixtures, a streak that will concern Anderlecht’s traveling delegation.

Anderlecht’s last competitive match in Sweden ended in defeat. Their 2-1 loss to BK Hacken in Gothenburg last season remains a recent memory as they prepare for a repeat encounter in Stockholm.

The winner of this tie will advance to the third qualifying round of the Europa League, with a potential tie against a seeded opponent awaiting the victors.