The Group E clash is perhaps the most hotly anticipated fixture of the group stage, with the highly coveted “golden generation” of Belgium taking on renowned tournament specialists Italy at the Stade de Lyon.
Supporters of the four-time world champions have voiced their collective distaste for Antonio Conte’s squad selection, especially bemoaning the lack of creativity in midfield without the likes of Marco Verratti (injured), Andrea Pirlo and Jorginho (not selected).
Pragmatism may be the order of the day for Conte’s men, but one man who has shielded lashings of criticism for a similar approach is his counterpart, Marc Wilmots. Belgium’s display at the 2014 World Cup was a conservative one, and a showing which failed to utilise the strengths of Eden Hazard or Romelu Lukaku by favouring a hard-bodied midfield rather than one specialising in craft.
Key battle – Toby Alderweireld vs. Graziano Pelle
Two former team-mates are expected to match up in this match. Alderweireld has shown immense versatility in the past by being able to operate adequately as a central defender or full-back. Coach Marc Wilmots looks set to name the 27-year-old in the heart of defence in the hope that his impressive form at club level can translate to the very top level. The former Ajax defender will be tasked with nullifying Italy’s top scorer in qualifying, Graziano Pelle, who will operate as the focal point of Conte’s 3-5-2 formation.
Fantastic atmosphere with fans mingling in party mood in Lyon ahead of Belgium v Italy. Good game this
— Ian Darke (@IanDarke) June 13, 2016
Team news
Belgium captain Eden Hazard looks to have survived an injury scare this week and is expected to be fit to face Italy.
Italy may start with Antonio Candreva and Stephan El Shaarawy as attacking wing-backs in an attempt to stretch Belgium’s defence. Jan Vertonghen is expected to start at left full-back, and while his strengths aerially and positionally are evident, Candreva and El Shaarawy would relish a 1v1 opportunity with the Tottenham defender.
Predicted line-ups
Belgium (4-3-3) – Courtois (GK); Alderweireld, Denayer, Vermaelen, Vertonghen; Nainggolan, Witsel; Mertens, De Bruyne, Hazard; Lukaku.
Italy (3-5-2) – Buffon (GK); Barzagli, Bonucci, Chiellini; Candreva, Florenzi, De Rossi, Giaccherini, El Sharaawy; Pellé, Éder.
Head to head
The Azzuri have traditionally dominated this fixture, winning 13 times to Belgiums four, with a further four draws included.
Belgium’s only competitive victory over Italy to date came at the 1972 European Championship – a 2-1 aggregate win in quarter-finals, a two-legged affair as was the match format at the time.
Italy were knocked out of Euro 1980 after being held to a 0-0 draw by Belgium, a result which saw the Red Devils reach the final.
Wilmots and Conte took part as players when the two sides met in Euro 2000, as Italy prevailed as 2-0 winners.
Previous meeting
The two nations last met in November 2015 as Italy succumbed to a 3-1 loss. Goals to Jan Vertonghen, Kevin de Bruyne and Michy Batshuayi saw the Red Devils roar back after Candreva’s opener.
Prediction
The timing of this match might work in Italy’s favour. Opening matches in big tournaments seldom bring the best out of teams, especially ones lacking big-game experience, so it will be of little surprise if Belgium, despite their immense qualities, do not comprehensively beat Conte’s Italy.
While a lack of midfield creativity may hurt the Azzuri’s chances of winning the tournament, their experience and football nous puts them in good stead to earn a result against anybody.
Belgium 1-1 Italy
What are your thoughts? Let us know by dropping a comment below via our Facebook comment box. Make sure you follow us on Twitter @Outside90 and like us on Facebook.
