Italy squares off against Belgium in an anticipated clash. Here's a rundown and betting tips for this exciting encounter.
Heading to the UEFA Nations League Clash 🇧🇪🆚🇮🇹
Belgium squares off against Italy on Thursday in a highly anticipated match. The Red Devils stand with four points from four games, giving up two goals in their last three outings. Italy, reigning supreme with ten points, currently leads Group 2 in League A.
Belgium's Performance Woes
Following a 15-game unbeaten streak before their tragic Euros exit against France, Belgium's Nations League journey began with a 3-1 victory over Israel, showcasing an impressive 3.53 xG. However, a string of disappointing performances has followed, including a 2-0 loss to France, a 2-2 draw with Italy, and a 2-1 home defeat to France despite their opponents being reduced to ten men in the 76th minute.
Time for a New Chapter
Coach Domenico Tedesco has welcomed Amadou Onana, Matz Sels, and Romelu Lukaku back to the squad for this game, while regular starters Kevin De Bruyne, Alexis Saelemaekers, Charles De Ketelaere, and Jeremy Doku are out due to injuries. Thibaut Courtois is also absent, leaving room forexperienced youngsters like Romeo Lavia and Albert Sambi Lokonga. The Red Devils aim to reduce their reliance on De Bruyne and Lukaku, using this Nations League as a testing ground for new strategies.
Italy's Reawakening
Like Belgium, Italy says goodbye to the Euros in the Round of 16, falling to Spain in the group stage and getting eliminated by Switzerland in the knockout round. Kicking off their Nations League campaign with a 3-1 comeback win over France, they later claimed a 2-1 victory against Israel at a neutral venue but relinquished a 2-0 advantage against Belgium, eventually drawing 2-2 despite having to play a man down for 50 minutes. Italy most recently dominated Israel 4-1, generating 2.77 xG compared to their opponents' paltry 0.26.
Seeking Nations League Victory
Under the guidance of coach Luciano Spalletti, Italy has summoned the fire to secure a win in the Nations League. The zealous Azzurri will attempt to control the game in Brussels with their possession-based style. Nicolo Barella returns to the squad for the first time since the Euros, and Moise Kean has been added to the forward options.
The Key Figures
- Belgium has faced defeat in six of its last twelve Nations League matches.
- Belgium has endured four losses in its last eight games, after an impressive 15-game unbeaten streak.
- Romelu Lukaku, Belgium's star striker and team captain, has scored a remarkable 85 goals in 119 appearances for his country.
- Italy has tasted victory in three of its last four matches.
- Italy has triumphed in five of its last seven encounters with Belgium.
Predictions Galore
This anticipated match is poised to be an open and thrilling affair, with goals likely aplenty. Given Italy's better form and tactics, an Italysuptomount the Red Devils ranks seem likely.
🏟️ Best Bet: Both Teams to Score at 1.66
🏆 Alternate Bet: Italy win/draw double chance + Over 1.5 goals at 2.00
📊 Correct Score Tip: Belgium 1-1 Italy at 5.75
⚽️ Goalscorer Tip: Romelu Lukaku to score anytime at 2.35
💬 Expert Opinion: James O'Connor, a football analyst specializing in the PSL and EPL, predicts an exciting game that could go either way, but expects Romelu Lukaku to potentially shine for Belgium.
In the context of the UEFA Nations League Clash between Belgium and Italy, Romelu Lukaku, Belgium's star striker, has an impressive record with 85 goals in 119 appearances for his country. Despite recent disappointing performances, Belgium aims to reduce their reliance on key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Lukaku, using this Nations League as a testing ground for new strategies. Italy, on the other hand, is seeking to build upon their recent successes, having won three of their last four matches, and has a remarkable five victories in their last seven encounters with Belgium. With Italy showcasing better form and tactics, a prediction of an Italian victory seems likely, and Romelu Lukaku is tipped to score anytime during the match.
