UEFA EURO 2024 Group Stage
17 June, 2024 - Indian Date
Frankfurt Arena
MATCH TIMES
India
09:30 PM
UAE
08:00 PM
Saudi Arabia
07:00 PM
MATCH LIVE INFO
Belgium possible starting lineup: Lunin; Konoplya, Zabarnyi, Matviyenko, Zinchenko; Shaparenko, Stepanenko, Sudakov; Tsygankov, Dovbyk, Mudryk
Slovakia possible starting lineup: Nita; Ratiu, Dragusin, Burca, Bancu; M. Marin, R. Marin; Man, Stanciu, Mihaila; Dragus
Match Preview
Belgium's national football team isn't fazed by the lack of external recognition as a favorite for Euro 2024, according to full-back Timothy Castagne. Despite their so-called 'golden generation' only securing a bronze at the 2018 World Cup and experiencing disappointing exits in other recent tournaments, Castagne emphasizes the team's internal belief and readiness to perform.
Belgium's recent qualification success—unbeaten in 40 World Cup/Euros qualifiers with 35 wins and five draws—highlights their consistent strength in preliminary stages. However, notable absences, such as Thibaut Courtois from the squad and Eden Hazard's retirement post-2022 World Cup, have contributed to a tempered outlook on their prospects in Germany.
Castagne underscores the balance of experience and youth within the squad, asserting that their potential will be proven on the pitch rather than in pre-tournament predictions. The Opta supercomputer's analysis reflects skepticism, giving Belgium a 4.7% chance of winning, with seven teams more favored for the title.
Fitness issues have somewhat marred Belgium's preparations for their Group E opener against Slovakia, with key defenders Jan Vertonghen, Arthur Theate, and Axel Witsel dealing with injuries. Nonetheless, Castagne remains confident in the squad's depth and readiness, emphasizing a sensible approach to training to avoid unnecessary risks.