Belgiumthe golden generation may have passed, but Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and company will be favorites to top Group E when the Red Devils begin their Euro 2024 campaign against Slovakia.
Belgium were among the favorites before Euro 2016 and Euro 2020, but have only managed to reach successive quarter-finals, and Dominic Tedesco’s side are not as desirable ahead of Euro 2024.
But they have the opportunity to build momentum after reaching a favorable group, with Ukraine and Romania also opponents in Group E. Lukaku scored 14 goals in qualifying and will be looking to make a quick start in Frankfurt.
Slovakia finished second, behind Portugal, in the qualifiers and is competing in the final phase of the European championship for the third consecutive tournament. Led by Francesco Calzona, Slovakia hopes to achieve a comeback.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the Group E game.
When is Belgium vs Slovakia?
The Group E game will kick off at 5pm BST on Monday 17th June and will be played at the Frankfurt Arena.
How can I watch?
Belgium v Slovakia will be broadcast live on ITV 1 and ITV X, with coverage from 4.15pm. You can find a full list of which channels are showing each match here.
If you’re traveling abroad and want to watch major sporting events, you might need a VPN to unblock your streaming app. Our VPN roundup is here to help and includes offers on VPNs in the market. Viewers using a VPN need to ensure they comply with all local regulations where they are, as well as the terms of their service provider.
What’s new with the team?
Belgium will be without Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who was not selected by coach Dominc Tedesco despite returning from an anterior cruciate ligament injury to play in the Champions League final. Belgium could start with a back three that features Axel Witsel in central defense, while the obvious strengths are in attack.
Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku could start at full-back, with Leandro Trossard joining Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne in attack. Johan Bakayoko is someone to watch at Euro 2024 and the 21-year-old PSV striker will look to make an impact from the bench if he misses his debut.
Slovakia will rely on Napoli midfielder Stanislav Lobotka and PSG defender Milan Skriniar to add experience to a young squad.
Predicted lineups
Belgium: Casteels; Faes, Witsel, De Cuyper; Castagne, Mangala, Onana, Doku; Trossard, Lukaku, De Bruyne
Slovakia: Dúbravka; Pekarík, Vavro, Škriniar, Hancko; Kucka, Lobotka, Duda; Schranz, Boženík, Haraslín
Chances
Belgium – 25/12
Draw – 3/10
Slovakia – 01/06
Prediction
Belgium got going with a convincing victory that was a reminder of their attacking prowess, with Trossaard and Lukaku on the scoresheet. Belgium 3-0 Slovakia
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