A blockbuster contest awaits in the round of 16 of the UEFA Euro Cup 2024 when France will take on Belgium in Dusseldorf. Star-studded squads will be on display as both teams battle it out in what promises to be a close game. Despite Belgium’s recent resurgence, it will be the French who will begin as the big favorites to play either Portugal or Slovenia in the quarter-finals.
Les Bleus are unbeaten in their last six outings, with three victories and three draws. Nevertheless, considering the talent in his ranks, Didier Deschamps will be disappointed with France’s efforts so far. None of the players has put the ball in the back of the net from open play so far. Perhaps, Deschamps still hasn’t figured out his optimal game plan. The issue needs to be resolved soon if France is to lift the cup in two weeks.
For Belgium, recent fortunes have reflected mixed feelings. While there has been a definite improvement in the quality of the soccer played by Belgium, the effectiveness has not always been present. In a group where Belgium was expected to run away, they were only able to manage a solitary victory against Romania. The supporters will hope that Euro 2024 will not end in the same helpless way that other recent tournaments have gone for Belgium.
France vs Belgium: Probable line-ups
French fans will be delighted with the fact that Kylian Mbappe completed 90 minutes against Poland in the last game, which makes him fit and ready for Belgium. Didier Deschamps is expected to continue with his preferred formation of 4-2-3-1. Antoine Griezemann, who sat on the bench in the Poland match, is reportedly in line to earn his place back and operate behind Mbappe. Bradley Barcola and Adrien Rabiot are assumed to fight out for the wide-left spot.
Muscle injuries continue to keep Axel Witsel and Thomas Meunier on the sidelines for Belgium. Leandro Trossard is believed to be the one sacrificed on the flanks for the returning Dodi Lukebakio. Former Inter Milan striker, Romelu Lukaku will look to finally open his account in the European championship after going blank in the last three encounters.
France’s probable line-up: Maignan; Kounde, Upamecano, Saliba, Hernandez; Kante, Tchouameni, Griezmann; Dembele, Barcola, Mbappe
Belgium’s probable line-up: Casteels; Castagne, Faes, Vertonghen, Theate; Onana, Tielemans, De Bruyne; Doku, Lukebakio, Lukaku
France vs Belgium: Head-to-head record
Last Five Meetings | Result |
Belgium lost to France | 2-3 |
France beat Belgium | 1-0 |
France lost to Belgium | 3-4 |
Belgium drew with France | 0-0 |
France drew with Belgium | 0-0 |
France vs Belgium: Live streaming details
The encounter between France and Belgium will be held at the Dusseldorf Arena in Dusseldorf at 12 noon EDT (6 pm CEST). In France, beIN Sports will broadcast the match live while in Belgium, RTBF and VRT hold the official telecast authority. As far as the US is concerned, Fox Sports will stream the fixture live for soccer enthusiasts.