Belgium will lock horns with Croatia at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on Thursday evening, hoping to pick up a positive result and progress into the knockout stages of the World Cup campaign. Roberto Martinez’s side will be heading into the match on the back of a surprising 2-0 loss to Morocco, whereas Zlatko Dalic’s men recorded a thrilling 4-1 victory over Canada.
Roberto Martinez will probably opt for the 4-2-3-1 formation with several tweaks from the last game. Youri Tielemans might get the nod over Amadou Onana, whereas Yannick Carrasco seems likely to make his way back into the starting eleven.
4-2-3-1 Belgium Predicted Lineup Vs Croatia
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 Thursday.
Toby Alderweireld will continue to form the centre-half partnership with Jan Vertonghen at the heart of Belgium’s backline.
Thomas Meunier is a guaranteed starter at the right-wing back position, whereas Timothy Castagne 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 Croatia. Kevin De Bruyne will take up the role of the attacking midfielder.
Leandro Trossard 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 Eden Hazard will take up the wide positions, playing on the left and right wing respectively.
Michy Batshuayi is expected to lead the line for his side against Croatia. The 29-year-old striker would hope to get his name on the scoresheet when he faces off against the Croatia defence that has conceded just one goal in their last two matches.
