Belgium vs Italy – UEFA Nations League – Preview, Team News and Updates

International football is back, and while many football fans think of it as unnecessary and inconsequential, there is jeopardy involved in November’s round of fixtures. With just two group-stage games left in the Nations League, nations are vying for a spot in the knockout rounds. Among those eyeing qualification are Belgium and Italy, both with a shot at advancing in the coming weeks.

Italy take on Belgium knowing very well that a point would be enough for them to book their spot in the knockout rounds of the Nations League. The Azzurri have performed admirably well in the competition, remaining unbeaten so far. These performances have put the Italians in a very advantageous position, as they only need a point in their last two group stage games to advance into the next round. Having said that, their next two games are against Belgium and France. Therefore, the Azzurri have to be at their best to qualify into the next round. 

Contrary Italy’s current predicament, Belgium haven’t been at their best this tournament. Currently, they occupy the third spot in the group, and they would enter tonight’s crunch match against Italy knowing that only a win against Italy can keep their qualification hopes alive. So, with their backs against the wall, can the Red Devils deliver a performance for the ages, or will Italy secure a knockout round spot on Belgian soil?  

Belgium vs Italy – Match Preview 

Belgium, under Domenico Tedesco, have struggled to find their rhythm in this Nations League campaign. The Red Devils' journey has been marked by inconsistency, which has kept them from meeting expectations. In a tough group with Italy, France, and Israel, no one expected Belgium to breeze through, but many hoped for a stronger showing. However, four games into the group stage, the Red Devils languish in the 3rd spot, above only group whipping boys, Israel. Tedesco’s men have only claimed one victory so far – a 3-1 win over Israel in Nations League opener. Besides that win, the Red Devils have succumbed to two losses against their neighbors France and a 2-2 draw against Italy.  

Now, Belgium’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout rounds are hanging by a thread, and tonight’s clash against Italy is must-win for them. In their previous meeting, Belgium came from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 thanks to goals from Leandro Trossard and Maxim De Cuyper. Fans are hoping for a repeat of that spirited performance as Belgium looks to shake off their past struggles. With stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans, Jeremy Doku, Leandro Trossard, and Lois Openda, Belgium certainly have the talent to pull off a win. However, history isn’t on their side—the Red Devils haven’t beaten Italy in a competitive match since 1972. Still, Tedesco’s men are fired up to reach the knockout rounds for a second time, and they’ll leave it all on the pitch in this high-stakes matchup. 

On the flip side, Italy have been one of the Nations League’s most reliable performers. After a disappointing Euro 2024 campaign, Luciano Spalletti made key tactical adjustments, and now the Azzurri are hitting their stride. Commanding victories over France and Israel have placed Italy on the verge of the knockout rounds—just a draw tonight would seal their spot. With an impressive 11 goals scored, Italy boasts the highest goal tally in the tournament, thanks to a vibrant attack with contributions from seven different players. Davide Frattesi, in particular, has impressed in the competition. He has scored in three separate matches already. He will definitely be the man to watch tonight. The Azzurri's newfound attacking edge has them poised for another strong performance, and they look ready to finish the group stage in style. 

Belgium vs Italy – Team News and Updates 

Italy’s injury list is a concern, with Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori and Torino’s Samuele Ricci joining long-term absentees Gianluca Scamacca and Giorgio Scalvini, both sidelined until 2025. Manuel Locatelli has been brought in to fill Ricci’s spot and will compete with Lazio’s Nicolo Rovella for a place in midfield, alongside the talented Nicolo Barella, Davide Frattesi, and Sandro Tonali. Roma captain Lorenzo Pellegrini, however, has been dropped from the squad. 

In attack, two in-form strikers, Mateo Retegui and Moise Kean, are set to battle for a starting spot. Kean, fresh off a hat-trick for Fiorentina, will look to impress, though Spalletti may exercise caution in choosing his forward lineup against formidable opposition. 

Meanwhile, Belgium’s manager Domenico Tedesco faces significant selection challenges of his own. Although star striker Romelu Lukaku is back after a recent withdrawal, captain Kevin De Bruyne leads a lengthy list of sidelined players, including Thomas Meunier, Jeremy Doku, Charles De Ketelaere, Youri Tielemans, and Malick Fofana. Romeo Lavia and left-back Maxim De Cuyper—who scored a stunning goal against Italy in October—are also doubtful, despite reporting for duty. To reinforce the squad, Tedesco has called up several promising players, including Juventus prospect Samuel Mbangula, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Killian Sardella, and Arthur Vermeeren. 

Belgium vs Italy – Kick-Off Time and Date 

The game is scheduled to take place on 15th November 2024 (Friday) at Stade Roi Baudouin in Brussels. The match will kick off at 1:15 AM (Indian Standard Time).  

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