France vs. Belgium

Introduction

France will play Belgium in Dusseldorf for a chance to clinch a spot in the next round of this competition. Both teams have been underwhelming in this tournament so far, claiming just a victory apiece. They also progressed as runner-ups in their respective groups. Who will turn up in this crunch tie and book a slot in the last eight? Let’s dive into this in-depth preview of the game.

About the game

France’s Performance

France’s performance so far at Euro 2024 has failed to live up to its status as the favorite to win the competition. They only finished as group D runners-up, with Austria surprisingly topping the group. After defeating Austria on Matchday 1, Les Bleus drew with the Netherlands and Poland. France scored just two goals in the group phase, their lowest group-stage tally since the 2010 World Cup. Despite their poor performance, they have the talent and experience to win this match.

Belgium’s Performance

Though expectations for Belgium were minimal in Germany, they were favored to win Group E ahead of Slovakia, Romania, and Ukraine. However, they secured just one victory, finishing second. Belgium will compete in their third consecutive European Championship knockout stage, reaching the quarter-finals in Euro 2016 and Euro 2020. They’ve won their last four last-16 games at major tournaments since losing to Brazil in the 2002 World Cup.

Head-to-Head History

France and Belgium will meet for the 76th time in men’s international football. The Red Devils are France’s most frequent opponent, having faced them almost twice as often as any other team. Les Bleus have won all four previous significant tournament encounters, scoring 13 goals and conceding just three. Their only prior European Championship meeting was 40 years ago.

Key Players to Watch

After scoring his first Euros goal against Poland, Mbappe is just one goal shy of Michel Platini’s French record for major tournament goals (14). He might be decisive in this encounter. Behind him will be veterans Antoine Griezmann and Ousmane Dembele, with Saliba and Upamecano holding the fort at the back.

Romelu Lukaku has yet to open his Euro 2024 account but remains crucial to the Belgians’ attack. He will get support from City’s De Bruyne and Doku. Amadou Onana will maraud the midfield, teaming up with Vertonghen and Wout Faes for defensive solidity.

Possible Team Lineups and Changes

Having played 90 minutes against Poland without issue, Mbappe will lead France’s charge, with Deschamps having a fully fit squad. Antoine Griezmann, benched in the final Group D match, is expected to return to the starting XI, prompting a shift back to a 4-2-3-1 formation. Speculation surrounds who will sit on the bench for Griezmann. Bradley Barcola is the most likely candidate, with Adrien Rabiot capable of playing on the left.

Belgium coach Tedesco will have Dodi Lukebakio back from suspension and may start him over Leandro Trossard, who struggled against Ukraine. Yannick Carrasco is also a strong contender. Injuries to Axel Witsel and Thomas Meunier persist, keeping them out. Despite the potential suspension, Wout Faes remains a crucial starter for the Red Devils.

France vs, Belgium Betting Odds and Predictions

With the attacking talents available to both managers, they will be hoping their offensive plans comes together to bridge their opponent’s defensive struggle. Looking at how wasteful Lukaku has been in front of goal, France will be more like to win this. Also, their last outing produced seven goals, hence our best pick will be France to advance to the quarter final and over 1.5 goals.

The Best Betting Odds

Conclusion

Despite both managers having impressive attacking options, neither offense has fully fired at the Euros. We anticipate a cautious game, with defenses prevailing. Belgium was lucky to avoid elimination against Ukraine, so we predict France will edge out a narrow victory in this match.