EURO 2024: Belgium vs Romania

Belgium will be looking to bounce back from their shock 1-0 defeat to Slovakia when they take on Romania in a crucial Group E clash at Euro 2024.

The Red Devils were heavy favorites going into their opener but failed to find the net despite dominating possession and chances. Romelu Lukaku was particularly wasteful, missing several clear-cut opportunities before having two goals ruled out by VAR.

Belgium manager Domenico Tedesco may make changes to his starting lineup, with Axel Witsel, Loic Openda and Maxim De Cuyper all pushing for inclusion. The experienced Jan Vertonghen could also return to shore up the defense.

In contrast, Romania will be brimming with confidence after their impressive 3-0 victory over Ukraine in their first match. Manager Edward Iordănescu is expected to field the same starting XI that secured that convincing win.

The Romanians will look to soak up pressure and hit Belgium on the counter-attack, with the likes of Denis Drăguș and Răzvan Marin providing a goal threat. Radu Drăgușin was a rock at the back against Ukraine and will need another commanding display to keep Lukaku and co. at bay.

A win for Belgium would put them back in contention for the knockout stages, while Romania could all but secure their place in the last 16 with another positive result. This promises to be a tightly contested affair between two teams with contrasting styles.

Key Battles

The individual battle between Romelu Lukaku and Radu Drăgușin could be pivotal. Lukaku will be determined to make amends for his profligacy against Slovakia, but the Romanian defender showed his defensive prowess in the win over Ukraine.

In midfield, the creativity of Kevin De Bruyne will be crucial for Belgium, while Romania will look to the experience of Nicolae Stanciu and Răzvan Marin to control the tempo of the game.

Prediction

Belgium's quality should shine through, but Romania will make them work hard for the three points. A 2-1 victory for the Red Devils seems the most likely outcome.

The Bad Tackle

TBA