Belgium will face Israel in the Nations League on Friday night. This is Domenico Tedesco’s likely line-up for his first match after the European Championship.
The Red Devils will face Israel in the Nations League tonight in Debrecen (Hungary). Domenico Tedesco and the national team must win back the hearts of their supporters and convince them again after the failure at the European Championship. Jan Vertonghen is no longer available and Romelu Lukaku is absent: Tedesco will have to adapt.
In goal, Koen Casteels, the best Devil during the European Championship, will logically keep his place. Unless the coach decides to ‘punish’ his transfer to Saudi Arabia with a return to the bench, in favor of Matz Sels in that case.
Arthur Theate as replacement for Jan Vertonghen
In front of him, the defense is expected to consist of Thomas Meunier on the right, Wout Faes and Arthur Theate in the center of the defense, together with Maxim De Cuyper on the left. Tedesco confirmed during the press conference that Theate has the best chances to replace Vertonghen.
Stability is needed in midfield, and the duo of Aston Villa: Amadou Onana – Youri Tielemans, have a great chance to start. For that, there is inevitably Kevin De Bruyne who has confirmed that he would like to be present until 2026.
On the wings, Jérémy Doku will most likely play on the left, while there are question marks on the right. Charles De Ketelaere could be tested in that position, but it would be too easy to forget Johan Bakayoko and Dodi Lukebakio, who will certainly get playing time during these Nations League matches. It is difficult to say at this point who will be preferred.
The time has come for Loïs Openda
In the absence of Romelu Lukaku, the place in the front naturally falls to Loïs Openda, who can now really seize his chances with the national team.
Possible line-up of Belgium: Casteels – Meunier, Faes, Theate, De Cuyper – Onana, Tielemans, De Bruyne – De Ketelaere, Doku, Openda.
