Unfortunately for Belgium, it was the same old story during the summer as they again failed to make a real impact on a major tournament.
Domenico Tedesco’s side never really got firing at the European Championships and exited at the first knockout stage.
They’ll look to bounce back in the Nations League, starting with a game versus Israel.
Match Preview
Belgium recent form
Belgium were eliminated from the Euros after a 1-0 defeat against France following a late own-goal from Jan Vertonghen.
In the group stage, they scraped through on four points after a defeat to Slovakia, a win versus Romania and a draw against Ukraine. They scored just two goals in four matches.
Belgium injury news
Tedesco has left three veterans out of his squad, as he looks to freshen things up with younger players.
Axel Witsel, Leandro Trossard and Romelu Lukaku all miss out. On Lukaku, The Belgium boss said:
“Romelu himself asked me not to be called up. He had a difficult preparation and has only just made his transfer. He is not in good enough shape to come. He is honest, and that is good.”
Thibaut Courtois has confirmed that he won’t play for Belgium again while Tedesco is still in charge.
The focus on youth sees Borussia Dortmund’s 18-year-old striker Julien Duranville and Celtic midfielder Arne Engels called up.
Israel recent form
Israel weren’t involved in the Euros but played two friendlies in June. They defeated Belarus 4-0 but lost 3-0 to Hungary.
Israel injury news
There are no fresh injury concerns for Israel.
Involved in the squad is Liel Abada, who has emerged as a key player for his country and Thai Baribo, who recently earned the Golden Boot in the American League Cup.
Israel – Player to Watch?
Kevin De Bruyne wasn’t at his best at the Euros, like the rest of his team-mates, but he remains Belgium’s best and most influential player.
Israel – Player to Watch?
Thai Baribo plays for Philadelphia Union and is on a bit of a hot goalscoring streak for his club.
These are the type of matches…
Source link : https://www.footballcritic.com/news/belgium-vs-israel-uefa-nations-league-prediction/5683
Author : editors@footballcritic.com (Martin Macdonald)
Publish date : 2024-09-04 09:42:28
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.