Belgium beat Italy, while Turkey conceded four: prediction for Belgium — Turkey
The UEFA Nations League third-round match between Belgium and Turkey will take place on October 2 at the “Maurice Dufrasne” stadium in Liège. Belgium followed a 2-0 victory over Italy with a 0-1 defeat to France and sit second in the group, while Turkey have lost both of their opening matches and remain without a point.
Belgium: a strong start under van Bommel
Mark van Bommel’s side opened the tournament with a confident 2-0 win over Italy before narrowly losing to France. Overall, Belgium’s start can be considered fairly solid, especially given the quality of their opponents.
However, Belgium are dealing with several squad issues. Diego Moreira is suspended, Romeo Lavia and Mike Penders are doubts, while Thibaut Courtois and Jérémy Doku were left out of the squad.
Turkey: two defeats and four conceded against Italy
Turkey began their League A campaign with a 0-1 defeat to France, then suffered a heavy 1-4 home loss to Italy. Vincenzo Montella’s team are bottom of the group and already facing serious pressure.
Improving their defensive performance is now especially important for Turkey. There is still plenty of creativity up front, however — Arda Güler remains the team’s primary creative force, while Barış Yılmaz is expected to start in attack again.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Belgium have won just one of their last seven matches against Turkey.
- Turkey have lost both of their opening matches in this Nations League campaign.
- The teams’ most recent meeting ended in a 1-1 draw in the Euro 2012 qualifying campaign.
The hosts can exploit Turkey’s defensive problems: prediction for Belgium — Turkey
Turkey can make this a difficult match for the hosts, especially if Güler is given space between the lines. However, after conceding four goals against Italy, serious questions remain over the team’s defense.
Belgium look more organized and have been the more consistent side over the opening two rounds. At home, van Bommel’s team should create enough chances to regain their winning momentum.
