Belgium’s famed “golden generation” has largely faded, leaving the national team in a rebuilding phase after underwhelming performances in the 2022 World Cup and the last Euro.
Their Nations League campaign began with a 3-1 win over Israel but was followed by a 2-0 loss to France. Last month, Belgium managed to draw 2-2 with a 10-man Italian side before falling to France once more. Under growing pressure, head coach Domenico Tedesco’s tenure has been challenging.
Italy, meanwhile, didn’t have a standout Euro campaign either but has shown strong form in the Nations League, currently leading the group after an opening win over France (3-1), a narrow 2-1 victory over Israel, and a hard-fought draw with Belgium. Italy sits one point ahead of France heading into their upcoming clash.
Belgium continues to feel the absence of its star playmaker Kevin De Bruyne, while other key players like Thielemans, Meunier, and young Vranckx are also unavailable. However, the squad welcomes back top scorer Lukaku, adding to an already capable forward line that includes Trossard, Doku, and Openda.
Defensive support comes from Castagne, Faes, Theate, and Debast, with midfield depth provided by Mangala, Ketelaere, and Onana, and young talent Malick Fofana also included.
For Italy, midfielder Pellegrini is eligible to return after a suspension, and coach Luciano Spalletti is likely to rely on goalkeeper Donnarumma, along with defenders Di Lorenzo, Dimarco, and Bastoni.
Midfield options include Tonali, Fagioli, and Frattesi, while forwards Retegui and Raspadori are expected to feature. Arsenal’s Calafiori remains sidelined due to injury.
Prediction
Belgium’s recent Nations League home matches have all stayed under 3.5 goals, a trend mirrored by Italy’s last 17 away games in the competition. Expect a similar outcome in this matchup.
Score Prediction: Belgium 1 – 1 Italy
