Belgium will lock horns with Italy at Allianz Arena on Friday night, hoping to pick up a positive result and progress into the semi-finals of the Euro 2020 tournament. Roberto Martinez’s side will be heading into the match on the back of a narrow 1-0 victory over Portugal, whereas Roberto Mancini’s men recorded a thrilling 2-1 victory over Austria in the Round of 16.
Roberto Martinez will probably opt for the 3-4-3 formation with several tweaks from the last game. Dries Mertens might get the nod over Kevin De Bruyne, whereas Yannick Carrasco seems likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
3-4-3 Belgium Predicted Lineup Vs Italy
Defence
Thibaut Courtois is expected to start in goal for the upcoming encounter. The Real Madrid shot-stopper would be looking to put up a strong performance and secure a clean sheet on Friday.
Toby Alderweireld will continue to form the centre-half partnership with Thomas Vermaelen and Jan Vertonghen at the heart of Belgium’s backline.
Thomas Meunier is a guaranteed starter at the right-wing back position, whereas Throgan Hazard will fill in on the other flank as the left-wing back. The duo would be expected to stretch their side’s attack on either flank.
Midfield
Youri Tielemans and Axel Witsel will slot in as the central midfielders, looking to put up a strong performance and dominate the midfield proceedings against Italy.
Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne have been ruled out of the quarter-finals as the duo picked up unfortunate injuries in the 1-0 win over Portugal.
Leander Dendoncker will have to settle for a place on the bench, but he might be called off the bench in the latter stages of the match if needed.
Attack
Yannick Carrasco and Dries Mertens will take up the wide positions, playing on the left and right-wing respectively.
Romelu Lukaku is expected to lead the line for his side against Italy. The 28-year-old striker would hope to get his name on the scoresheet when he faces off against the Italian defence that has conceded just one goal in their last twelve games.
