The highly anticipated UEFA Nations League clash between Belgium and France is set to take place at Stade Roi Baudouin in Brussels on Monday night. Both teams are chasing Italy at the top of Group A2, making this fixture a pivotal encounter in the race to secure a spot in the finals. With Belgium battling injuries to key players like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois, they will rely on a younger and less experienced squad to take on a French side also missing stars like Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappe.
Despite both nations dealing with absences, France enters this game as the slight favorite, given their recent form and squad depth. Les Bleus, led by Didier Deschamps, are on a solid run after thrashing Israel 4-1 in their last outing. Belgium, meanwhile, managed a 2-2 draw against Italy, benefiting from the Azzurri’s red card.
Belgium’s Chances: Can the Red Devils Bounce Back?
Belgium, now in a transition phase after their golden generation’s peak, will face an uphill battle on Monday night. Without De Bruyne orchestrating play in midfield and Lukaku leading the attack, the Red Devils will need to find alternative sources of creativity and finishing.
Manager Domenico Tedesco is expected to rely on the attacking trio of Leandro Trossard, Lois Openda, and Jeremy Doku to cause problems for France’s defense. Doku, in particular, has impressed with his pace and dribbling ability, and his direct approach will be key in breaking down France’s backline. Wout Faes will anchor Belgium’s defense, with Timothy Castagne and Arthur Theate providing support from wide areas.
However, Belgium’s defensive vulnerabilities were exposed against Italy, and Tedesco is still searching for the right balance in his backline. Without the stability provided by Courtois in goal, Koen Casteels will need to step up and deliver a commanding performance to keep France at bay.
France: Depth and Experience the Key
France will be without two of their biggest names, Griezmann and Mbappe, but Didier Deschamps’ side is packed with talent. Randal Kolo Muani is expected to lead the line, supported by Michael Olise and Bradley Barcola in a dynamic front three. This attacking trio has the potential to stretch Belgium’s defense and create scoring opportunities with their movement and speed.
In midfield, Deschamps can call upon the impressive duo of Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni, who provide a perfect blend of creativity and defensive stability. Matteo Guendouzi is likely to join them, adding extra energy and pressing ability in the middle of the park.
France’s defense, marshaled by William Saliba and Ibrahima Konate, will be tough to break down. Jules Kounde and Theo Hernandez will offer attacking width from the full-back positions, while Mike Maignan, in goal, has been in top form.
Predicted Lineups
Belgium (3-4-3):
Casteels; Faes, Debast, Theate; Castagne, Tielemans, Mangala, De Cuyper; Trossard, Openda, Doku.
France (4-3-3):
Maignan; Kounde, Konate, Saliba, Hernandez; Tchouameni, Camavinga, Guendouzi; Olise, Kolo Muani, Barcola.
Key Players to Watch
- Lois Openda (Belgium): With Lukaku absent, Openda will be tasked with leading the line and finding a way past France’s tough defense. His speed and eye for goal will be crucial for Belgium.
- Eduardo Camavinga (France): A midfield maestro, Camavinga will look to control the game’s tempo and unlock Belgium’s defense with his passing and vision.
- Jeremy Doku (Belgium): Known for his blistering pace, Doku could be Belgium’s best hope for unsettling France’s defense. If he can find space on the wings, he could cause serious problems.
Match Predictions & Betting Tips
This Nations League clash is expected to be closely contested, with both teams missing key players. Despite Belgium’s home advantage, France’s squad depth and superior form make them the favorites for this encounter.
Who Will Win?
According to Jambobet, France is tipped to secure the victory, given their recent dominance over Belgium. Les Bleus have won their last four matches against the Red Devils and are expected to continue their winning streak. Prediction: France to win.
Both Teams to Score (GG)?
While Belgium has the talent to create chances, France’s defense has been solid in recent outings. Given Belgium’s struggles in attack without Lukaku and De Bruyne, and France’s strength at the back, it’s unlikely that both teams will score. Prediction: No GG.
Over 2.5 Goals (OV 2.5)?
Despite the attacking potential on both sides, this game is likely to be more controlled and tactical. With both teams missing their key goal scorers and France’s ability to grind out results, a high-scoring affair may not be on the cards. Prediction: Under 2.5 goals.
France to Continue Dominance Over Belgium
As Belgium looks to break their poor run against France, the absence of key players could prove too big an obstacle. France, despite their own injury issues, has the depth and quality to get the job done. With Randal Kolo Muani leading the line and Camavinga pulling the strings in midfield, France should come away with a narrow win.
Belgium’s younger stars, like Doku and Openda, may give the French defense a few problems, but without the firepower of Lukaku and the creativity of De Bruyne, it’s hard to see them breaking down France’s well-organized backline. Expect a tight game, with France edging it 1-0.
For betting enthusiasts, Jambobet tips France to win, with no GG and under 2.5 goals as the most likely outcomes. Keep an eye on the midfield battle and defensive organization as the key to this contest.
