Ireland vs Belgium: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Published at :March 21, 2024 at 8:31 PM

Modified at :March 21, 2024 at 8:31 PM

These two teams last met in 2022

The Republic of Ireland will host Belgium at Aviva Stadium this Saturday for an international friendly. Belgium aims to fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming European Championships, while Ireland seeks to secure some positive results as they rebuild following a disappointing qualifying campaign. Although Ireland has no imminent competitions to prepare for, they are focused on strengthening squad cohesion ahead of their pursuit of World Cup qualification.

In their qualifying journey, Ireland struggled, managing only two wins and suffering six losses across eight matches, accumulating a total of six points and falling short of qualification by 12 points. Conversely, Belgium finished top in Group F in the European Qualifiers. Their group included formidable opponents such as Austria, Sweden, Azerbaijan, and Estonia. Belgium remained undefeated, securing six victories and two draws in eight matches, finishing just one point ahead of Austria. This fixture promises to be an enticing clash as both teams seek to achieve their respective objectives.

Kick-Off:

Saturday, 23rd Mar 2024, 10:30 PM (IST), 05:00 PM (GMT), 01:00 PM (EST)

Stadium: Aviva Stadium

Form

Ireland Form (All Competitions): D-W-W-L-W

Belgium Form (All Competitions): W-W-D-W-W

Player to Watch

Adam Idah (Ireland)

Adam Idah is a tall, physically strong player with exceptional finishing abilities. He is known for scoring goals from long distances, showcasing his top-quality skills. His presence on the field poses a significant threat to the opposition, supported by his excellent attitude during gameplay.

Johan Bakayoko (Belgium)

Johan Bakayoko’s direct runs at defenders have the potential to break through the opposition’s defensive line and create pressure on the goalkeeper. The young Belgian exhibits excellent first-touch skills under pressure and displays confidence in manoeuvring past multiple opponents, utilizing his remarkable speed on counter-attacks. His adept ball control and assurance on the ball make him a formidable presence in one-on-one situations against fullbacks, while he is also increasingly effective in aerial duels, owing to his developing physical stature.

Match Facts

Ireland haven’t beaten Belgium since May 1966.
Ireland and Belgium last met for a friendly showdown in March 2022, Saturday’s opponents played out a 2-2 stalemate in Dublin.
Belgium are unbeaten in all of their previous 11 straight appearances across all competitions.

Injury and Team News

Belgium have confirmed that Manchester City superstar Kevin de Bruyne will be sidelined for the next two weeks due to a recent minor groin injury. Additionally, in surprising announcements, both Thorgan Hazard and Yannick Carrasco have been left out of Tedesco’s squad.

The uncapped trio comprising Sammie Szmodics, Jake O’Brien, and Finn Azaz have received their first call-up to the squad and stand a chance to earn their debut senior caps on Saturday evening. Similarly, Michael Obafemi, Robbie Brady, and Callum O’Dowda have been recalled to the squad.

Head-to-Head

Matches: 16

Ireland: 4

Belgium: 6

Draws: 6

Predicted Lineup for Ireland vs Belgium

Ireland Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):

Kelleher(GK); McClean, Omobamidele, Duffy, Doherty; McGrath, Knight, Molumby; Johnston, Idah, Sykes

Belgium Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):

Sels(GK); Deman, Theate, Dakhil. Debast; Tielemans, Mangala, Vermeeren; Trossard, Openda, Bakayoko

Match Prediction for Ireland vs Belgium

While Belgium had to settle for a 2-2 draw when they visited Dublin two years ago for a friendly match, the Red Devils should now see a golden opportunity ahead. As they cruise towards this summer’s European Championships and are once again considered one of the top contenders, Saturday’s visitors will aim to take advantage of an Ireland squad amid an ongoing crisis. Belgium are favoured to win this fixture.

Prediction: Ireland 1-3 Belgium

Telecast for Ireland vs Belgium

India: Sony Pictures Network

UK: Channel 4, Viaplay Sports

USA: fubo TV

Nigeria: No Telecast

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