Sunday’s high-stakes UEFA Nations League clash between Israel and Belgium, where both teams are fighting to avoid relegation. Rock-bottom Israel and third-placed Belgium, both struggling in League A Group 2, will meet at Budapest’s Bozsik Arena, with the stakes especially high for Israel, who must win by at least three goals to avoid automatic demotion.
Match Preview
Belgium’s hopes of advancing to the Nations League quarter-finals were dashed after their third loss of the campaign, a 1-0 defeat to Group 2 leaders Italy on Thursday. Sandro Tonali capitalized on a defensive misstep by Maxim De Cuyper, who had been a hero in their 2-2 draw in Rome last month. Despite late efforts from Romelu Lukaku and Wout Faes, Domenico Tedesco’s side fell short.
Pressure is mounting on Tedesco, whose team has won just once in their last seven games, including a lackluster Euro 2024 campaign. Currently sitting third in the group, Belgium can avoid a direct relegation but must prepare for a potential playoff in March to retain their League A status.
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Compounding their challenges, Belgium is without several key players, including captain Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku, and Youri Tielemans. Talks with estranged goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who has vowed never to work with Tedesco again, further add to the uncertainty surrounding the team’s future.
For Israel, the situation is even bleaker. Ranked 81st by FIFA, they have only one point from their Nations League campaign and need a miracle to climb out of last place. A 0-0 draw against France on Thursday, amidst chaotic scenes of fan violence, showcased their defensive grit, with goalkeeper Daniel Peretz delivering a standout performance.
Despite their valiant effort in Paris, Israel’s chances of pulling off a three-goal win against Belgium seem slim. The Sky-Blue and Whites have struggled to adapt to the challenges of League A, making their return to League B appear all but certain.
Team News
Belgium’s Tedesco may opt for changes, particularly upfront, where Romelu Lukaku and Lois Openda failed to click against Italy. Dodi Lukebakio and Johan Bakayoko could be introduced to add width, while Arthur Vermeeren may see more minutes in midfield. Key injuries leave Tedesco with limited options, but the Red Devils will likely adopt a more attacking formation against Israel.
Israel is expected to maintain a defensive 5-4-1 setup, similar to the one that frustrated France. Daniel Peretz will once again start in goal, supported by a defensive line featuring Eli Dasa and Omri Goldberg. Upfront, Tai Baribo or Dean David will lead the attack, backed by Manor Solomon and Oscar Gloukh.
Possible Lineups
Israel: Peretz; Dasa, Nachimas, Shlomo, Goldberg, Haziza; Solomon, Abu Fani, Jaber, Gloukh; David
Belgium: Casteels; Castagne, Debast, Faes, Theate; Mangala, Onana; Lukebakio, Trossard, Bakayoko; Lukaku
Match Outlook
In their last meeting, Belgium dominated Israel with 25 shots and 66% possession, cruising to a 3-1 victory. Despite their struggles, the Red Devils are expected to exploit Israel’s defensive vulnerabilities and end their campaign on a high note.
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