Belgium lock horns with Italy in a crucial UEFA Nations League Group A2 clash at King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels. Italy seek continuation of their unbeaten run to finish at the top of the table, while Belgium look for solace to avoid the relegation playoff. Here is a complete preview with team news, predicted line-ups, and betting tips.
Match Preview
Thursday, November 14, 2024King Baudouin Stadium, BrusselsUK: 7:45 pm US ET: 2:45 pm US PT: 11:45 amBelgium Preview: Desperate to Avoid Relegation Playoff
Belgium kicked off its Nations League campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over Israel but has since struggled, losing twice to France and drawing against Italy in their last meeting. Belgium, under manager Domenico Tedesco, sits third in Group A2, five points behind second-placed France, and will make this a must-win match to keep any playoff hopes alive.
Key Players: Romelu Lukaku
Without Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois, Lukaku will be the main man leading the frontline. His experience and physique will be of critical importance when the team desperately needs to earn a win.
Head-to-Head Record:
Belgium has never ever won against Italy in the context of a competitive match since 1972. The last time they defeated Italy was in a friendly match in 2015.
Italy Preview:
Desire to Finish Top of Group A2
Under Luciano Spalletti, Italy is having a fabulous run in this Nations League. They have won three and drawn one so far. A point against Belgium will seal their quarter-final spot for the third successive time. Their away record has been good, having won four in a row away from home in the Nations League.
Key Players: Mateo Retegui and Nicolo Barella
The attacking venom and creative flair of Atalanta’s Retegui and Inter’s Barella will prove quite important in this bid for goals to break through the Belgium rearguard.
Nations League Record:
Italy’s record in the Nations League is very impressive, with only two losses in their last 20 group-stage games (W10, D8, L2).
Team News
Belgium
Unavailable: Kevin De Bruyne (Injury), Thibaut Courtois (Injury)
Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1): Maarten Vandevoordt; Castagne, Faes, Debast, Theate; Mangala, Tielemans; Lukebakio, Trossard, Doku; Openda
Italy
Unavailable: None reported
Predicted lineup: (3-5-1-1) Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori; Bellanova, Barella, Ricci, Tonali, Dimarco; Pellegrini; Retegui
Prediction: Belgium vs Italy
Though they are not in the best of shapes, home advantage could give Belgium an extra edge. However, Italy’s solid form and strong defense should help them get out of Brussels unscathed.
Prediction: Draw
Betting Tip: Double Chance – Italy to Win or Draw
Picking up a double chance on Italy will not be a bad pick considering how Italy have been unbeaten in the Nations League, with Belgium facing injuries.
