Israel vs Belgium Match Preview, Head to Head, Possible Lineups and Prediction | UEFA Nations League.
Match Details:
- Tournament: UEFA Nations League
- Teams:Â Israel National Football Team vs Belgium National Football Team
- Date: Sunday, November 17, 2024
- Kick-off Time: 7:45 pm GMT
- Venue: Bozsik Aréna, Hungary
The UEFA Nations League is back with a crucial group-stage fixture as Israel takes on Belgium at Bozsik Aréna in Hungary. While Belgium National Football Team fights for a spot in the playoffs, Israel hopes to avoid a winless campaign.
Match Preview
Israel’s Nations League Campaign
Israel’s journey in the UEFA Nations League has been challenging, with four losses in their opening games against tough opponents like Italy, France, and Belgium. Struggling to make their mark, Israel faces an uphill battle as they remain at the bottom of the standings. Despite their perseverance and strong fan support, they are yet to collect any points in this campaign.
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Israel’s last major tournament appearance was over 50 years ago, and qualifying for the Nations League represents a significant achievement for their team. However, their defensive vulnerabilities have been evident, conceding 13 goals in four games. Israel hopes to reverse their fortunes as they aim to secure a home victory to boost morale and give their supporters something to celebrate.
Belgium’s Nations League Form
Belgium, on the other hand, has been underwhelming in this Nations League season. They sit third in the group, having picked up just four points from their first four matches. Following a recent 2-1 loss to France, Belgium needs a win to have any shot at advancing to the playoffs. Despite being favorites against Israel, Belgium’s inconsistencies in both defense and finishing have raised concerns.
Missing key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans due to injuries, Belgium will look to maintain their strong record against Israel. Belgium’s previous UEFA Euro 2024 campaign didn’t go as planned, but they aim to build momentum in this Nations League clash.
Team News
Israel National Football Team News
Israel welcomes back their influential captain, Eli Dasa, who has returned from injury to lead the team. Dasa’s experience and skill as a versatile defender will be crucial against a talented Belgian side. However, Israel faces other roster challenges, as forward Dor Turgeman and goalkeeper Omri Glazer have been ruled out due to injuries.
- Returning Player: Eli Dasa
- Out Injured: Dor Turgeman, Omri Glazer
Belgium National Football Team News
Belgium’s squad also faces notable absences, with captain Kevin De Bruyne missing out due to injury. Other key players, including Thomas Meunier, Jeremy Doku, Charles De Ketelaere, Youri Tielemans, and Malick Fofana, are sidelined as well. Young Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia remains a doubt despite joining the squad for international duty. Coach Domenico Tedesco is expected to rely on a mix of experienced and emerging talents to secure victory.
- Out Injured: Kevin De Bruyne, Thomas Meunier, Jeremy Doku, Charles De Ketelaere, Youri Tielemans, Malick Fofana
- Doubtful: Romeo Lavia
Predicted Lineups
Here’s a look at the expected lineups for both teams:
Israel National Football Team Predicted Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Peretz
- Defenders: Dasa, Feingold, Nachimas
- Midfielders: Abada, Kanichowsky, Abu Fani, Haziza
- Forwards: Gloukh, Gandelman, Baribo
Belgium National Football Team Predicted Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Casteels
- Defenders: Castagne, Debast, Faes, Theate
- Midfielders: Mangala, Onana, Vermeeren
- Forwards: Bakayoko, Lukaku, Trossard
Head-to-Head Record
Belgium and Israel have faced each other only eight times in international competitions. Belgium has a strong record in these encounters, with seven wins compared to Israel’s single victory.
Last Five Matches:
| Date | Match | Competition |
|---|---|---|
| September 6, 2024 | Belgium 3-1 Israel | UEFA Nations League |
| October 1, 2015 | Belgium 3-1 Israel | UEFA European Championship |
| March 31, 2015 | Israel 0-1 Belgium | UEFA European Championship |
| January 19, 1988 | Israel 2-3 Belgium | International Friendly |
| November 15, 1978 | Israel 1-0 Belgium | International Friendly |
Key Players to Watch
Eli Dasa (Israel)
Eli Dasa, Israel’s captain, returns to the squad after missing the first few games due to injury. Known for his versatility in defense, Dasa is a pivotal figure for Israel, providing stability and leadership. Currently playing for Dynamo Moscow, Dasa brings top-tier experience to Israel’s backline and will be instrumental in containing Belgium’s offense.
Romelu Lukaku (Belgium)
Belgium’s top scorer, Romelu Lukaku, is back in the squad and expected to make a big impact. Lukaku, with an impressive 85 goals in 119 appearances for his country, provides the firepower Belgium needs. His ability to finish in the box and strength in holding up play make him a constant threat to Israel’s defense.
Match Prediction
Israel has struggled throughout this Nations League campaign, failing to secure a single point in their four outings. Against opponents like Italy, France, and Belgium, Israel’s defensive weaknesses have been apparent, having conceded 13 goals thus far. With limited offensive options and an exposed backline, Israel faces a tough challenge.
Belgium is the clear favorite in this matchup, boasting a stronger squad and a superior head-to-head record. Despite injuries to key players, the Red Devils have the depth and quality to overpower Israel. With Romelu Lukaku leading the attack, Belgium is likely to press Israel’s defense, aiming for an early lead to control the game.
Soccer Baba Predicted Score: Israel 0-2 Belgium
Where to Watch Israel vs Belgium Live
Catch the live broadcast of Israel vs Belgium on the following channels:
- USA: Fox Sports USA, fuboTV
- UK: ITV
- India: Sony Network, SonyLiv
- Israel: The Sports Channel, Charlton
- Belgium: RTBF, RTL, Eleven Sports
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Summary
The Nations League clash between Israel and Belgium National Football Team is set to be a crucial game for both teams. Belgium, third in the group, seeks to secure a playoff spot, while Israel is eager to turn around their winless run. While Israel will rely on their captain Eli Dasa for inspiration, Belgium’s forward Romelu Lukaku could be the deciding factor. With Belgium’s impressive head-to-head record against Israel, they are favorites to win.
This article provides a comprehensive preview, detailed team news, and prediction for the Israel vs Belgium clash on November 17, 2024.