Article: Belgium vs Italy
Written by: Reagan Oluoch
Date Published: 14-11-2024
Belgium vs Italy UEFA Nations League Betting Prediction, Odds, and Stats
The final international break of 2024 marks the return of the UEFA Nations League. This is with a heated clash, Belgium vs Italy on November 14th, with the opportunity to determine their destiny in Group A2.
Italy’s resurgence has been a standout narrative in this season’s UEFA Nations League. The Azzurri aim to extend their unbeaten streak as they prepare to take on Belgium in Brussels. We cover essential betting insights, including recent team performance, head-to-head statistics, and valuable odds comparisons across major bookmakers.
Key Takeaways
- Belgium is playing host to Italy at the King Baudouin Stadium on Thursday, Nov 14, 2024, at 19:45 UTC
- Belgium have lost two of their last three games, drawing 2-2 with Italy
- Italy have won three of their past four games against Belgium
- Italy have won both of their away games in the UEFA Nations League this year
- We predict a draw in the UEFA Nations League clash
League | Match | Date | Stadium |
UEFA Nations League | Belgium vs Italy | 14th of November, 19:45 UTC | Koning Boudewijn stadion |
Belgium vs Italy News
Belgium’s hopes of reaching the playoffs are hanging on by a thread after a promising start to the UEFA Nations League. Under Domenico Tedesco, they sit third in Group A2, five points behind second-placed France. With just six points left to play for, a loss in Brussels would mean they’re facing a relegation playoff.
This situation starkly contrasts the country’s high expectations over the past decade. As they try to move past the disappointment of their trophyless ‘Golden Generation,’ the Red Devils have seen their reputation drop from the top of FIFA’s rankings in September 2018 to sixth place ahead of this crucial match.
Despite sitting three places below Belgium in the FIFA rankings, Italy is heading to Brussels with a positive mindset. A draw would secure their advancement to the quarter-finals for the third straight Nations League cycle. Under Luciano Spalletti, the team is focused on claiming the top spot.
Italy has achieved this in the last two Nations League tournaments. With an unbeaten record in their first four Group A2 matches (three wins and one draw), they are eager to secure a win in Brussels before facing France in a crucial match next weekend.
Belgium vs Italy: Current Form
Looking at recent form, Gli Azzurri has emerged as the dominant force in Nations League Group A2, showcasing an impressive unbeaten run in their first four outings. On the other hand, Belgium find themselves in deep waters coming on the back of a disappointing 2-1 loss to France.
Belgium News: Current Form
Belgium started their Nations League campaign strong, cruising to a 3-1 victory against League A newcomers Israel. Afterwards, the team suffered a 2-0 loss to France.
The Red Devils found some relief with a 2-2 draw against Italy in their last match in Rome. Belgium fell behind by two goals in the first half to Cambiaso and Retegui. But managed to equalize in the second half thanks to goals from youngster Maxim De Cuyper and Leonardo Trossard.
While they held Italy to a draw, it was little comfort, as their winless streak against the Azzurri in competitive matches has now reached seven games (two draws and five losses).
The overall picture isn’t great, even when including friendly matches (one win, two draws, and five losses).
Belgium’s squad has undergone notable adjustments, with the return of Romelu Lukaku being the most significant boost. Latest sports news suggest that they’ll be without key players Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois, while Youri Tielemans is sidelined with a knee injury.
Italy News: Current Form
Aside from the recent draw against Belgium, Italy has performed strongly in this Nations League cycle. They secured an impressive 2-1 win over Israel, and pulled off a stunning comeback with a 3-1 victory over France. This boosted their confidence after a disappointing UEFA European Championship.
After the setback at the Stadio Olimpico, Italy quickly rebounded, thrashing Israel 4-1 in their last match, which set them up well for this important away game.
Italy has also recorded four consecutive Nations League victories on the road, highlighting their confidence ahead of their first visit to Belgium since a 3-1 friendly loss in November 2015.
For Italy, there’s positive news as Nicolo Barella, Sandro Tonali, and Davide Frattesi return to the fold. Mateo Retegui, who has been in impressive form for Atalanta, will lead the attack.
Belgium vs Italy – Head to Head Stats
The most recent clash between these sides ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw in October 2024, where Italy surrendered a two-goal lead after Lorenzo Pellegrini’s dismissal.
The overall head-to-head statistics heavily favor Italy, with 5 wins, 2 draws, and just 1 defeat against Belgium in their last eight encounters.
Italy is unbeaten in their last four competitive matches against Belgium, both in the UEFA Nations League and EUROS.
Belgium vs Italy Predicted Lineups
We expect a completely new squad for both sides with new faces called up and certain mainstays withdrawn due to injuries.
Belgium Lineup:
Maarten Vandevoordt (GK); Timothy Castagne, Wout Faes, Zeno Debast, Arthur Theate; Orel Mangala, Youri Tielemans; Dodi Lukebakio, Leandro Trossard, Jeremy Doku; Lois Openda.
Italy Lineup:
Donnarumma (GK); Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Buongiorno; Cambiaso, Frattesi, Barella, Tonali, Dimarco; Raspadori; Retegui.
Belgium vs Italy Betting Prediction
Our betting offers on the goals market presents compelling opportunities based on recent scoring patterns. The Over/Under 2.5 goals line is currently priced at:
- Over 2.5 goals: 1.955
- Under 2.5 goals: 1.848
Betting strategists on the Correct Score market suggests a tight contest, with a 1-1 draw priced as the most likely outcome at 3.42. This aligns with the recent 2-2 draw between these sides and their historically close encounters.
Summary
This match stands as a defining moment for both teams’ Nations League campaigns, with Italy poised to secure qualification and Belgium fighting for survival. Recent head-to-head encounters, tactical matchups, and scoring patterns point toward an Italian victory, though Belgium’s desperate need for points could create an open, attacking spectacle.
Where to Bet: Belgium vs Italy UEFA Nations League
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