Belgium vs Italy: Belgium lock horns with Italy in the 2nd Quarterfinal of the Euro 2020 on Saturday at the Allianz Arena in a classic clash.
Match Details:
Teams: Belgium vs Italy
Venue: Allianz Arena, Munich
Date: Saturday 3rd July, 2021
Time: 12:30 AM IST
Live Link:
https://www.sonyliv.com/sports/football-uefa-euro-2020-1700000714
Preview
Belgium beat the reigning champions, Portugal 1-0 in the Round of 16 to secure their spot in the quarters.
Thorgan Hazard’s peach of a strike was enough as the Red Devils held on to give their Golden Generation of players a shot at the title.
On the other hand, Italy has laid down the marker with their performances throughout the competition and are in serious contention to win the trophy.
Being 31 matches unbeaten as a side has ensured that success will come their way sooner rather than later.
Azzurri prevailed as they beat Austria 2-1 after extra time in the round of 16.
Chiesa and Pessina scored late for Italy whereas Kalajdzic scored for Austria in what was a tough match for the men in Blue.
Mancini’s men look the real deal as the Euro 2020 progresses.
The Belgian side have also performed well with the likes of Hazard, De Bruyne and Lukaku being the in-form players and this is set to be a crunch battle.
The two sides faced each other last in the Euro 2016 where Italy won 2-0 through Giaccherini and Pelle’s goals.
Form Guide
Belgium: WWWWW
Italy: WWWWW
Also read: Euro 2020 Round of 16: Top strikes from the Round of 16| Check out the list
Last Matches of both teams:
Belgium 1-0 Portugal
Italy 2-1 Austria
Also read: Top 5 most impressive defenders in the Euro 2020| Check out names
Where to watch the live streaming and broadcast of Belgium vs Italy in India?
The match can be live streamed on the Sonyliv App while the broadcast will be available on Sony Ten 2/HD and Sony Six/HD.
Regional broadcast is available on Sony Ten 4 and Sony Ten 1/HD.
Team News
Hazard and De Bruyne are major doubts for Belgium as both were subbed off against Portugal due to hamstring and ankle issues respectively.
Meanwhile, Italy has no injury concerns ahead of this clash.
Belgium possible 11:
Courtois, Vertonghen, Alderweireld, Vermaelen, Hazard, Witsel, Tielemans, Meunier, Carrasco, Mertens and Lukaku.
Italy possible 11:
Donnarumma, Spinazzola, Chiellini, Bonucci, Di Lorenzo, Jorginho, Locatelli, Barella, Berardi, Insigne and Immobile.
Prediction: Belgium 1-3 Italy
De Bruyne and Hazard’s absence creates a void which is difficult to fill for Belgium ahead of this contest.
Italy’s form and consistency gives them the edge for this clash and we expect them to win this one.
Belgium needs to be on the money to keep Italy at rest in absence of their key players.
The Azzurri hold the cards and should book their semi-final spot.
Players to watch out for: Lukaku, Mertens, Tielemans, Spinazzola, Locatelli, Insigne.