Belgium’s ‘dark horse’ tag took a beating after the demoralising fashion in which Italy swept the supposed golden generation aside.
Just how golden is it really? A comprehensive win against a spirited Ireland outfit will quell any more immediate criticism, but Martin O’Neill’s side, in any case, will go down swinging to stay alive in group E.
Key battle – Romelu Lukaku/Divock Origi vs John O’Shea
Italy’s blueprint to nullify and counter the Belgian’s is one that Ireland can borrow elements from. Conceding possession and territory will be the Irish order of the day in any case, and John O’Shea’s role in that will be crucial.
Lukaku struggled against Italy. He squandered a golden chance in the second half, chipping an effort just wide of Gianluigi Buffon’s goal after what was a scintillating counter attack. A scoring contribution will be expected against opposition of this pedigree, but as has been seen with this Marc Wilmots coached side, goals are usually few and far between.
The suggestion that Lukaku will be dropped was validated by his manager after the loss to Italy, opening the door to Divock Origi or Christian Benteke to start.
“I don’t know yet whether Romelu will start again. I will have to think about the line-up,” the Belgium manager said at the post-match press conference.
“It’s not like all his confidence is gone all of a sudden after the match versus Italy. I have a number of options, though, and we will see which one is the best.
“The other strikers have been doing well in training too and they might get their chance. It is not about Lukaku or anyone else – it is about the team.”
Team news
Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne both missed training but are expected to take part against Ireland. Lukaku’s starting spot might be at risk with Origi and Benteke performing well in training.
O’Neill’s side will be without forward Jonathan Walters, who has an achilles problem and is ruled out of tomorrow’s clash.
BREAKING: Martin O'Neill confirms Jonathan Walters out of Republic of Ireland's #EURO2016 match against Belgium with Achilles injury #SSNHQ
— Sky Sports News HQ (@SkySportsNewsHQ) June 17, 2016
Expected XI
Belgium: Courtois (GK); Ciman, Alderweireld, Vermaelen, Vertonghen; Witsel, Naingolan; Hazard, Fellaini, De Bruyne; Lukaku.
Rep. of Ireland: Randolph (GK); Coleman, O’Shea, Keogh, Brady; McCarthy, Hendrick, Whelan, McClean; Hoolahan; Long.
Head to head
Ireland have failed to win any of their five competitive meetings against Belgium. These sides have met 11 times in total, with Ireland trailing Belgium three wins to five.
Previous meeting
The last match finished 2-1 to Belgium, as part of the ’98 World Cup qualifiers.
Prediction
Somewhere, somehow, Belgium will find an attacking spark and De Bruyne’s use centrally could be the catalyst for this. The Manchester City playmaker was a shadow of himself against the tactically superior Italians, but if he can recapture form displayed at club level, it could well be a long afternoon for Ireland who will miss the polish, work-rate and experience of Walters.
Belgium 2-0 Ireland
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