UEFA Euro 2024 Pre-Quarter
June 1, 2024 - Indian Date
Arena AufSchalke
MATCH TIMES
India
09:30 PM
UAE
8:00 PM
Saudi Arabia
7:00 PM
FULL TIME
France possible starting lineup: Maignan; Kounde, Saliba, Upamecano, Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni, Rabiot; Griezmann; Thuram, Mbappe
Belgium possible starting lineup: Casteels; Castagne, Faes, Vertonghen, Theate; Tielemans, Onana; Doku, De Bruyne, Carrasco; Lukaku
Match Preview
The Euro 2024 last-16 tie between France and Belgium in Dusseldorf promises to be a thrilling encounter, revisiting the rivalry from the 2018 World Cup semi-finals. Both teams finished second in their groups after disappointing final-day draws, setting the stage for a high-stakes knockout match.
France Overview:
Kylian Mbappe, set to join Real Madrid, finally broke his Euro 2024 scoring drought with a penalty against Poland, though the game ended 1-1 after a controversial retaken penalty by Robert Lewandowski. France, despite a strong defensive record, struggled offensively in the group stage, failing to score from open play and managing just one goal from set pieces. The defensive solidity, however, remains a cornerstone for Didier Deschamps's team, having conceded only one goal in their last five matches.
France's path to the final is fraught with challenges, potentially facing Portugal, Germany, and Spain. Deschamps is expected to revert to a 4-2-3-1 formation with Antoine Griezmann back in the starting lineup, possibly replacing Bradley Barcola. Marcus Thuram may join Mbappe in a two-pronged attack, while Adrien Rabiot could take up a left-sided role.
Belgium Overview:
Belgium's group stage was marked by offensive struggles, scoring only twice and failing to find the net in two matches. Domenico Tedesco's side scraped through thanks to a superior goal difference, but questions remain over their attacking efficiency. Romelu Lukaku, yet to score in the tournament, will be key to Belgium's hopes.
Belgium has performed well in recent knockout stages, advancing from their last four last-16 encounters at major tournaments. They will be without Axel Witsel and Thomas Meunier due to injuries, but Dodi Lukebakio returns from suspension and could replace Leandro Trossard in the starting XI. Yannick Carrasco, who impressed against Ukraine, is also in contention for a starting spot.
Key Matchups:
1. Mbappe vs. Belgian Defense: With Mbappe back in form, the Belgian defense, led by Wout Faes, will need to be at their best to contain the French star.
2. Midfield Battle: The midfield contest will be crucial, with Griezmann's creativity pitted against Belgium's experienced midfield duo.
3. Set Pieces: Given France's struggles to score from open play, set pieces could play a decisive role, especially with their solid defensive record.
Historical Context:
France has had the upper hand in recent encounters, defeating Belgium in the 2018 World Cup semi-final and the 2021 Nations League semi-final. Belgium, however, will aim to draw inspiration from their consistent knockout stage performances and avenge past defeats.
This clash between two European powerhouses promises to be a tactical and emotional battle, with both sides aiming to move past their group stage disappointments and into the quarter-finals.
Hi
ReplyDelete