Long-awaited Euro 2024 Round of 16 matchups France and Belgium It will be held on Monday, July 1st Merkur Spiel Arena In Dusseldorf, Germany.
The two European powerhouses, ranked second and third in the world respectively, will battle it out for a place in the quarter-finals and their chances of winning the tournament.
Match Preview
Former World Cup champions France had a somewhat disappointing performance in the group stage, finishing second in Group D. Austria.
Despite boasting a star-studded team like Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann, and N’Golo KanteLes Bleus have managed just two goals in three games, the only one coming from open play. Mbappe’s penalty.
Belgium: “Golden Generation”They also struggled to find their rhythm in the group stage, finishing as runners-up in Group E. Romania.
The Red Devils are Kevin De Bruyne And the ability to score goals Romelu Lukakusuffered a shocking defeat Slovakia and, Ukraine.
France’s group stage performance was less than convincing, finishing in a 0-0 draw. Netherlandss and 1-1 Polandnarrowly winning 1-0. Austria.
Meanwhile, Belgium began their campaign with a surprising 1-0 defeat to Slovakia but bounced back with a 2-0 win over Romania and a 0-0 draw with Ukraine.
Face to face
France and Belgium have a rich history of head-to-head matches, with France holding a slight edge.
In the last five meetings, France have won twice, Belgium have won once and there have been two draws.
The most recent encounter took place in the UEFA Nations League, with France winning 3-2.
Injuries and suspensions
Both teams are in relatively good health heading into this important matchup.
French Kylian MbappeHe suffered a broken nose in the group stage and is expected to play wearing a protective mask.
Belgian Dodi LukebakioAlthough he missed the final group match due to suspension, he is still eligible for selection.
prediction
The fixture is expected to be a fierce battle between two teams determined to prove their worth on the European stage.
Both teams have struggled to find their attacking rhythm in the group stage but, given the quality of the players who have been featured, a flash of brilliance could be the difference between victory and defeat.
Given France’s track record and Mbappe’s potential impact, there is a slight chance that France can narrowly beat Belgium and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Betting Tips
Results: France wins (1-0)
2.5 Goals Over/Under: Under 2.5 goals
Both sides to score: no
handicap: France -0.5
The low scoring record of both teams in the group stage, combined with the high-stakes nature of this knockout encounter, will make for a tense, cautious match.
Given France’s defensive sturdiness and the possibility of Mbappe producing some magical moments, France are slightly more likely to win.