Evening Standard
·28 June 2024
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·28 June 2024
Under-pressure Red Devils unlikely to make many changes for last-16 tie
Domenico Tedesco is set to keep faith in Romelu Lukaku for Belgium’s last-16 tie with France at Euro 2024.
The Red Devils have been heavily criticised by their fans for a pair of limp displays in what looked like an easily winnable Group E, as a defeat to Slovakia and draw against Ukraine earned them a difficult knockout tie as runners-up.
There are plenty of options for Belgium to freshen up their team against their rivals, particularly in attack and Dodi Lukebakio could earn a quick recall after serving a one-game ban.
That could mean Arsenal winger Leandro Trossard drops to the bench, with Johan Bakayoko another contender to start.
Up front, RB Leipzig striker Lois Openda hit 24 goals in the Bundesliga last season but looks set to remain on the bench behind Lukaku, who has received negative reviews for missing chances.
Youri Tielemans has been a welcome addition to the midfield since recovering from injury midway through the group stage and should continue alongside Andre Onana and Kevin De Bruyne.
Belgium are less flushed with defensive options so are unlikely to change much having conceded just one goal so far.
Predicted Belgium XI: Casteels; Castagne, Faes, Vertonghen, Theate; Tielemans, Onana; Lukebakio, De Bruyne, Doku; Lukaku
Time and date: 5pm BST, Monday July 1, 2024
Venue: Dusseldorf Arena
TV channel: ITV1