As Belgium transitions from its famed ‘golden generation,’ the team faces a challenging UEFA Nations League (UNL) cycle, with only a win offering any hope of avoiding relegation in League A. However, standing in their way is an Italian squad Belgium has not bested in competitive play since 1972 (D2, L4). Even their overall record in friendlies is bleak, with Belgium managing only four wins against Italy’s dominance (W4, D5, L16).

Match Preview: Belgium vs Italy

Belgium’s Strategy: Fighting for Redemption

As Belgium transitions from its famed ‘golden generation,’ the team faces a challenging UEFA Nations League (UNL) cycle, with only a win offering any hope of avoiding relegation in League A. However, standing in their way is an Italian squad Belgium has not bested in competitive play since 1972 (D2, L4). Even their overall record in friendlies is bleak, with Belgium managing only four wins against Italy’s dominance (W4, D5, L16).

Born in Italy, head coach Domenico Tedesco might find extra drive from his background. However, pressure on Tedesco to turn around outcomes is growing as Belgium only boasts one victory in their past six D2, L3 games.

Italy’s Strengths and Recent Performances

In contrast, Italy comes into this game with momentum. A single point secures their advancement to the quarterfinals after a promising UNL start (W3, D1). Despite a draw in their last encounter with Belgium while a man down, Italy bounced back with a 4-1 victory over Israel, solidifying their position at the top. Italy’s strength in away matches is notable, having won both of their UNL away games, including a stunning win against France, extending their impressive away record in this competition.

Key Players to Watch

• Romelu Lukaku: De Bruyne out makes Lukaku’s presence absolutely vital for Belgium. But he faces a goal drought for his national team, his longest scoreless run since 2018. Still, his 85 worldwide goals show his scoring power.

• Mateo Retegui: Representing Italy, Retegui has scored twice in recent UNL matches, including a crucial goal against Belgium. His form will be vital in Italy’s attack.

Head-to-Head Statistics

• In their last 11 matches, Italy has dominated with six wins, while Belgium has managed only two victories, with three draws.

• Italy scores a notable 27% of their goals between minutes 61-75.

• Italy remains unbeaten in their last four matches.

• Both teams have struggled defensively, with Belgium conceding in each of their last five games and Italy in their previous eight.

Predicted Starting Lineups

Belgium: Casteels; Castagne, Debast, Faes, Theate; Mangala, Onana, Vermeeren; Bakayoko, Lukaku, Trossard

Italy: Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Buongiorno, Bastoni; Cambiaso, Barella, Locatelli, Tonali, Dimarco; Raspadori; Retegui

Belgium vs Italy: Betting Insights and Opportunities

Football betting enthusiasts can explore StarBet’s comprehensive market with competitive odds for this thrilling fixture. Current odds favor Belgium to win at 2.42, with the draw at 3.30 and Italy at 2.82. Given Belgium’s home advantage, they are marginally favored, though Italy’s resilience makes them a formidable opponent.

Predicted Outcome

Both teams have shown strengths and vulnerabilities, making a balanced game likely. A draw appears realistic, with a 1-1 final score as a reasonable prediction, factoring in both squads’ recent form and historical performance.

Discover more insights and expert predictions on StarBet’s football prediction page to place confident bets.