Will Romelu Lukaku start against Israel? It wasn’t Domenico Tedesco’s original plan, but the pressure is mounting after the defeat against Italy.
The start of Romelu Lukaku on Sunday against Israel remains uncertain. Although the Red Devils only risk relegation to Division B of the Nations League in the event of a defeat by three goals or more, the initial plan was for Lukaku to only start against Italy.
Domenico Tedesco, the coach, has already announced his intention to make changes. In the previous match, young talents like Matte Smets had their chance. It was also tacitly agreed that Lukaku could be spared in Budapest, especially if the stakes were limited.
The recent defeat against Italy has increased the pressure considerably. Another debacle is the last thing the Red Devils need.
If finishing third in such a tough group, with France and Italy, is nothing infamous, the signs of fragility are accumulating. A defeat by three goals would result in direct relegation. Even if this disaster scenario is avoided, the March play-offs could still threaten Belgium with relegation.
Tedesco faces a dilemma: start Lukaku to strengthen the team or stick to his plan to give young people a chance. One certainty remains: a defeat against Israel would deal another severe blow to confidence in the team and the coach.
