One of the most exciting matches of Euro 2020 will take place on Friday when Italy face off against Belgium in the Allianz Arena in Germany. The two sides have been impressive in the tournament and have won all their games so far.
Italy’s experienced backline and energetic wide men have brought them success so far, while the Belgians have been dominant thanks to their midfield and attack. The two sides faced each other in Euro 2016 in a group game, where Italy won the game 2-0. That was, in fact, the last meeting between the two sides.
Let’s take a look at 5 players to watch out for in the game between Belgium and Italy.
Kevin De Bruyne
Belgium are sweating over the fitness of their star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who limped off in the game against Portugal. Manager Roberto Martinez has stated that De Bruyne and Eden Hazard have a 50-50 chance of being available for the game against Italy.
The Belgians will be hoping that the Manchester City midfielder is fit and ready as he has a huge influence on his team. De Bruyne had an immediate impact on his side when he was brought on against Denmark and put in a fantastic performance against Finland. His passing and energy from midfield, and partnership with Romelu Lukaku will be missed if he is unavailable for this game, which would straightaway make the Italians the out and out favourites.
Leonardo Spinazzola
A lot of Italy’s attacks in Euro 2020 have come from the left side, with left-back Leonardo Spinazzola being the main man to provide width on the left. The Roma full-back’s driving runs and crossing has caused a lot of trouble to opposition sides.
Spinazzola has averaged 2.3 dribbles per game in the tournament so far. His dribbling could be a threat to the Belgium defence, which lacks pace in the final third.
Romelu Lukaku
Romelu Lukaku has been one of the standout forwards so far, not just for his goalscoring but also for his hold-up and build-up play. The Inter Milan striker has scored three goals so far and has started all four matches in Euro 2020.
Lukaku’s battle against the experienced duo of Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci will be an interesting one. The Belgian’s strength and pace could trouble the Italian duo and this match-up could decide the fate of the game.
Marco Verratti
One of Italy’s most important players is midfielder Marco Verratti, who has been solid in the two games that he has played so far in Euro 2020. Belgium have a strong midfield, with the experience and defensive strength of Axel Witsel, the passing of Youri Tielemans, and the all-round ability of Kevin De Bruyne. Verratti’s tenacious spirit, passing, and speed will be needed to win the midfield battle.
Verratti will have to keep hold of the ball and thread passes to Italy’s quick attackers, while also cover for Spinazzola when he bombs down the flank.
Giorgio Chiellini
Like De Bruyne, Giorgio Chiellini will also likely have to pass a late fitness test ahead of the game against Belgium. The Italian captain hobbled off the pitch in the first half of the game against Switzerland and has missed two subsequent matches.
Chiellini’s experience, aerial ability and passing will be needed to keep a strong Belgian side at bay. He will also have to keep Lukaku quiet, while also moving high up the pitch to initiate attacks with his passing.
