On Thursday, Italy will host Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome as both teams continue their UEFA Nations League campaigns. Italy is riding high after a strong start, while Belgium seeks to recover from recent setbacks.
Match Preview
Italy: The Azzurri have enjoyed a resurgence under new head coach Luciano Spalletti, securing maximum points from their opening matches in this season’s Nations League. Italy started with a remarkable 3-1 victory over France, coming back after conceding a quick goal. They followed that performance with a solid win against Israel, placing them at the top of League A Group 2. Despite a disappointing showing at Euro 2024, where they exited in the last 16, Italy is optimistic about their chances in the Nations League as they aim for a quarter-final berth.
Belgium: The Red Devils had a mixed September, starting with a 3-1 win over Israel but suffering a disappointing 2-0 defeat to France shortly after. Captain Kevin De Bruyne’s frustration with the team’s performance has been evident, especially after their struggles in the Euro 2024 tournament. With De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku both absent, Belgium faces a challenging task against a rejuvenated Italian side. Under pressure, coach Domenico Tedesco is hoping to stabilize the squad and build momentum as they look towards the 2026 World Cup.
Team News
Italy: Spalletti continues to introduce fresh talent into the squad, with five uncapped players, including Daniel Maldini, son of legendary defender Paolo Maldini. Federico Chiesa is still recovering from fitness issues, while Gianluca Scamacca and Giorgio Scalvini are sidelined with injuries. Fiorentina striker Moise Kean has also withdrawn due to a back problem, leading to Lorenzo Lucca’s call-up after an impressive start to the season with Udinese. Nicolo Barella returns to the squad after sinus surgery, providing a boost to the midfield.
Belgium: Tedesco faces significant challenges with the absence of key players, including Lukaku, who has taken a break from international duty, and De Bruyne, who is injured. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is also unavailable, raising questions about the team’s stability. Tedesco has called up several players from Serie A, including Charles De Ketelaere and Samuel Mbangula. Lois Openda is expected to lead the line in Lukaku’s absence, while Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard returns to the squad.
Predicted Lineups
Italy (4-3-3):
- Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori; Bellanova, Barella, Ricci, Tonali, Dimarco; Pellegrini; Retegui
Belgium (4-2-3-1):
- Casteels; Castagne, Faes, Debast, Theate; Mangala, Tielemans; Lukebakio, Trossard, Doku; Openda
Prediction
Italy’s resurgence, coupled with Belgium’s ongoing struggles and absences, makes them the favorites for this match. With a solid defensive lineup and a fresh midfield, Italy is expected to secure all three points and maintain their perfect record in Group 2.
Predicted Score: Italy 2-0 Belgium.
