Match Prediction: Belgium vs Slovakia UEFA European Championship 2024
Great things have been expected of this Belgium side for some time now. Similar to England's perceived golden generation about two decades ago, this Belgian side have very little to show for their talent. They aren't as strong on paper as they once were but some of their stars are still playing at their peak and new superstars have emerged so there is the possibility that this team might go all the way this Euros.
Slovakia's best performance was reaching the last 16 of this tournament back in 2016. If they are able to qualify from this group, they will once again achieve this feat. It won't be easy for them, of course, but considering how well they performed in qualifying, they should go into this tournament believing that qualifying is a real possibility.
How did they qualify?
Belgium qualified with absolute ease, winning six and drawing two, finishing ten points ahead of third-placed Sweden. They also scored 22 goals and only conceded four, which really shows just how dominant they were in their group. Their star striker Romelu Lukaku was also mightily impressive in this campaign, scoring 14 goals! He will, of course, be looking to add to this tally during these European Championships.
Slovakia were also impressive, finishing second in their group behind a strong Portugal side that walked away with the group. Not famed for any star players, they played with a pragmatic approach, scoring 17 goals and conceding only 8 during their campaign.
Team Analysis
Many feel that the Belgian golden generation has missed its opportunity to win silverware, but is this really true? Their prime defenders and Eden Hazard have since retired, so they aren't as strong on paper as they once were but they still have a team capable of winning any game on their day.
Players to watch
The Belgians have so many world-class players to choose from. On this occasion we have decided not to think out of the box and have highlighted their key man.
- Kevin De Bruyne: If you want one man in world football to play the perfect ball at the most important time, you would have to pick this man. The assist king, who picks up plenty of goals himself, will be key to breaking down the Slovakian defence.
The Slovakians do not have as much talent to call upon. They are likely to be concerned about how they can stop this very potent Belgian side, and they will likely need a standout performance from their goalkeeper.
- Martin Dubravka: The 35-year-old remains the team's number-one goalkeeper, and he is all set for UEFA 2024 after decent performances in the Premier League with Newcastle this season.
Prediction
During the World Cup, Belgium were incredibly disappointing considering the talent they have at their disposal. It was clear then that they needed an injection of youth and this is exactly what they have done. We can't see anything other than a Belgium win here.