Italy and Belgium will square off in a key UEFA Nations League encounter this week, with both teams eager to solidify their positions in the group stage. Italy, under Luciano Spalletti, will be looking to maintain their momentum following back-to-back victories in their opening two matches. After a strong win against France and a confident showing against Israel, Gli Azzurri enter this fixture with high spirits and a 100% record so far.
Belgium, on the other hand, are still in the rebuilding process under Domenico Tedesco. Their opening Nations League performances have been inconsistent, with a win against Israel followed by a disappointing defeat to France. With key players such as Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku unavailable, the pressure is on the Belgian squad to deliver, with Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard expected to step up as their main attacking threat.
Italy Predicted Lineup
Italy are expected to stick to a 3-5-1-1 formation, which has served them well so far in this season's competition.
Gianluigi Donnarumma will likely continue between the posts, providing a solid last line of defence. In front of him, a back three of Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Bastoni, and Riccardo Calafiori is anticipated, with the trio responsible for managing Belgium’s attacking force.
Federico Dimarco and Raoul Bellanova are expected to operate as wing-backs, offering width while also contributing to the defensive phase. In central midfield, Sandro Tonali, Samuele Ricci, and Davide Frattesi are tipped to form a dynamic trio.
Lorenzo Pellegrini is expected to play just behind the striker, Mateo Retegui, who will lead the line after his recent impressive performances.
Italy Predicted Lineup to face Belgium
Italy (3-5-1-1):
Gianluigi Donnarumma;
Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Bastoni, Riccardo Calafiori;
Federico Dimarco, Samuele Ricci, Sandro Tonali, Davide Frattesi, Raoul Bellanova;
Lorenzo Pellegrini;
Mateo Retegui.
Here is how the side last lined up
Gianluigi Donnarumma; Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Bastoni, Riccardo Calafiori; Federico Dimarco, Samuele Ricci, Sandro Tonali, Davide Frattesi, Raoul Bellanova; Lorenzo Pellegrini; Mateo Retegui.
Belgium Predicted Lineup
Belgium, missing some of their star players, are expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation.
Matz Sels is set to be the starting goalkeeper. The defensive line is likely to feature Timothy Castagne, Wout Faes, Arthur Theate, and Zeno Debast, as Belgium aim for a stable backline against Italy's potent attack.
In midfield, Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana are expected to shield the defence while also contributing to forward play.
Ahead of them, Leandro Trossard, Jeremy Doku, and Dodi Lukebakio will be the attacking trio supporting striker Lois Openda. Trossard, in particular, will be pivotal as Belgium’s primary attacking outlet in the absence of De Bruyne and Lukaku.
Belgium Predicted Lineup to face Italy
Belgium (4-2-3-1):
Matz Sels;
Timothy Castagne, Wout Faes, Arthur Theate, Zeno Debast;
Youri Tielemans, Amadou Onana;
Jeremy Doku, Leandro Trossard, Dodi Lukebakio;
Lois Openda.
Here is how the side last lined up
Matz Sels; Timothy Castagne, Wout Faes, Arthur Theate, Zeno Debast; Youri Tielemans, Amadou Onana; Jeremy Doku, Leandro Trossard, Dodi Lukebakio; Lois Openda.
Belgium 
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