Italy vs Belgium Dream11 Prediction UEFA Nations League, Lineup, Win Prediction

Italy and Belgium will lock horns at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome for a high-stakes UEFA Nations League match. As both teams aim to assert themselves in the competition, Italy sits atop Group 2 after a dream start in September, while Belgium is reeling from a disappointing loss.

Date: October 10, 2024
Venue: Stadio Olimpico, Rome
Competition: UEFA Nations League | League A | Group 2

Italy vs Belgium Preview, UEFA Nations League

Italy, under new head coach Luciano Spalletti, has experienced a remarkable turnaround following their underwhelming Euro 2024 performance, where they crashed out in the round of 16. The Azzurri have bounced back with consecutive victories in the Nations League, starting with a stunning 3-1 win over France in Paris. Despite a disastrous opening that saw them concede a goal within 13 seconds, Italy showed resilience as Federico Dimarco’s stunning strike set the stage for a commanding win. Giacomo Raspadori and Davide Frattesi added to the tally, securing Italy’s dominance.

While Italy enjoys an upward trajectory, Belgium finds itself dealing with internal issues and a squad in transition. Their September campaign began on a positive note with a 3-1 win over Israel, thanks to a Kevin De Bruyne brace. However, their momentum faltered after a 2-0 defeat to France. De Bruyne’s post-match criticism of his teammates for their lack of fight, along with ongoing tensions within the squad, has raised concerns about morale.

Italy Starting Lineup

Donnarumma; Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori; Bellanova, Barella, Ricci, Tonali, Dimarco; Raspadori, Retegui

Italy Team News

• Italy will likely stick to their 3-5-2 formation, which offers both defensive solidity and attacking width.
• With Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal and a strong defensive trio of Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Bastoni, and Riccardo Calafiori, the Azzurri will look to stifle Belgium’s forward line.
• In midfield, Sandro Tonali and Nicolo Barella, who returns from surgery, are key to dictating the tempo.
• Up front, Raspadori and Retegui will aim to exploit Belgium’s vulnerabilities in defense.

Belgium Starting Lineup

Casteels; Castagne, Faes, Debast, Theate; Onana, Tielemans; Lukebakio, Trossard, Doku; Openda

Belgium Team News

• Belgium, without the leadership of De Bruyne and Lukaku, will rely on emerging talents.
• Lois Openda is expected to lead the attack, with Leandro Trossard supporting from midfield after returning to the squad.
• The youthful energy of Dodi Lukebakio and Jeremy Doku offers a direct threat down the flanks.
• Defensive frailties have been a concern, with Belgium conceding too easily against top sides.

Italy vs Belgium Dream11 Prediction

GK: Casteels

DEF: Faes, Bastoni, 

MID: Doku, Ricci, Tonali, Dimarco, Tielemans

FW: Raspadori, Retegui, Openda

Key Players to Watch

Federico Dimarco (Italy): Dimarco has been instrumental in Italy’s recent successes, and his stunning goal against France was a testament to his ability to influence games. The Inter Milan left-back provides a consistent threat on the wing, contributing both offensively and defensively. His crossing and set-piece delivery could prove pivotal in unlocking Belgium’s defense.

Lois Openda (Belgium): In the absence of Lukaku, Openda has emerged as Belgium’s primary striker. His speed and finishing ability make him a constant threat, especially on the counterattack. With Italy expected to dominate possession, Openda’s pace could be Belgium’s best chance to break down the Azzurri defense.

Italy vs Belgium Winner Prediction

Given the contrasting form of both sides and Italy’s home advantage at the Stadio Olimpico, the Azzurri enter this contest as favorites. While Belgium possesses individual talent capable of turning the game, their recent struggles and the absence of key players make Italy’s balanced and well-organized team likely to secure a third consecutive win.

Prediction: Italy 2-1 Belgium