The UEFA Nations League returns with an exciting clash as Belgium hosts France at the Stade Roi Baudouin in Brussels on Monday night.
This highly anticipated encounter will see two European football giants battle it out as both sides aim to close the gap on Italy, who currently lead Group A2.
With Belgium looking for a much-needed victory and France hoping to extend their dominance, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter for football fans. If you’re looking for the best predictions for the UEFA Nations League, Jambobet.co.ke is the top choice.
Belgium’s Quest for Redemption
Belgium enters this game after a 1-1 draw against Italy, where they failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage after the Italians were reduced to ten men.
The Red Devils have secured four points from their first three group games, but if they want to have a real chance at topping the group and advancing to next year’s finals, they need to secure a rare win over France.
Historically, Belgium has struggled against their neighbors, with their last victory over France coming in 2015. Since then, they’ve suffered four consecutive losses, including a 2-0 defeat in September 2024.
Belgium is also missing key players for this crucial fixture. Notable absentees include Kevin De Bruyne, who is still nursing a pelvic injury, and Romelu Lukaku, who surprisingly hasn’t been called up despite his stellar form this season.
To make matters worse, Thibaut Courtois remains unavailable due to injury, and Matz Sels has pulled out of the squad, meaning Koen Casteels is expected to start between the posts.
Despite these challenges, Belgium still boasts a talented squad that can pose a serious threat to France.
Leandro Trossard, Lois Openda, and Jeremy Doku are set to lead the attack in a 3-4-3 formation, with Timothy Castagne and Arthur Theate providing defensive support.
Belgium’s hopes will rest on their ability to stay organized at the back and capitalize on their offensive chances.
France Eyes Group Dominance
France, on the other hand, enters this match full of confidence after a dominant 4-1 victory over Israel last Thursday. The 2018 World Cup winners are looking to continue their winning streak and maintain their stronghold over Belgium.
Les Bleus have won their last four meetings against Belgium, and despite some notable absences, they remain the favorites heading into this game.
Kylian Mbappe, who has been dealing with a minor injury, will not feature in the squad, and France will also be without long-time international star Antoine Griezmann, who recently announced his retirement from international duty.
However, Didier Deschamps has plenty of firepower at his disposal. Randal Kolo Muani is expected to lead the line for France, with Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola joining him in the attacking trio.
In midfield, the dynamic duo of Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni will anchor the middle of the park, supported by Matteo Guendouzi.
The defensive backline will feature the likes of Jules Kounde, William Saliba, and Lucas Hernandez, with Mike Maignan starting in goal. France’s well-rounded squad and tactical discipline under Deschamps give them the edge in this encounter.
RECOMMENDED:
Belgium vs France: Predicted Lineups
Belgium (3-4-3):
Koen Casteels; Zeno Debast, Wout Faes, Arthur Theate; Timothy Castagne, Youri Tielemans, Orel Mangala, Maxim De Cuyper; Leandro Trossard, Lois Openda, Jeremy Doku.
France (4-3-3):
Mike Maignan; Jules Kounde, Ibrahima Konate, William Saliba, Lucas Hernandez; Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Matteo Guendouzi; Michael Olise, Randal Kolo Muani, Bradley Barcola.
What to Expect from the Match
While Belgium still harbors hopes of qualifying for next year’s Nations League finals, their task has been made more difficult by the absence of key players.
Domenico Tedesco’s side struggled against Italy on Thursday, and despite playing with an extra man, they were unable to find a winning formula. Belgium will need to be far more efficient in front of goal if they hope to end their losing streak against France.
For France, Deschamps’ men will aim to assert their dominance early in the game. While the absence of stars like Mbappe and Griezmann may seem like a blow, the depth of talent in the French squad ensures they remain strong contenders for the win.
France has been solid both offensively and defensively throughout their Nations League campaign, and with Italy leading the group, they will be highly motivated to take all three points from this fixture.
Jambobet Prediction: Belgium 0-2 France
Given their track record against Belgium and their current form, France should have the upper hand in this encounter.
Belgium, although talented, has struggled to find consistency under Tedesco, and the absence of De Bruyne, Lukaku, and Courtois will undoubtedly weaken their chances. Expect France to control the game, capitalizing on Belgium’s defensive vulnerabilities to secure a comfortable 2-0 win.
