England's recent encounter with Brazil ended in a frustrating 1-0 defeat, with the absence of key players like Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka affecting their attacking prowess. On the other hand, Belgium was held to a goalless draw by the Republic of Ireland, leaving both teams seeking redemption.
Brazil's victory was particularly memorable as it marked 17-year-old Endrick's historic goal, making him the youngest male player ever to score at Wembley for club or country. However, for England, the defeat cast a shadow of doubt on their hopes for Euro 2024 glory, especially as it was their first loss at Wembley in over four years.
Gareth Southgate, England's manager, found some positives in his team's performance despite the loss, but the lack of a cutting edge in front of goal remains a concern. Belgium, under Domenico Tedesco, also struggled to find the net against Ireland, with their attacking display failing to impress.
Belgium, missing key players like Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, will be eager to put on a better showing before Euro 2024. Their recent unbeaten run and defensive solidity provide some reassurance, but they'll need to improve offensively.
History favors Belgium slightly, with victories in three of their last four encounters with England. However, England's only defeat in that time came at an empty Wembley in the 2020-21 Nations League, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Just moments after a crucial goal-saving move to deny Vinicius Junior, Kyle Walker's game was cut short by a hamstring issue, forcing him off the field in the 19th minute on Saturday. Despite attempting to continue, Walker eventually had to admit defeat and leave the pitch.Walker joins Harry Maguire and Sam Johnstone on the sidelines, both also nursing injuries. This has led to Rico Lewis and James Trafford, both yet to earn caps at the senior level, being called up to the England squad.
In addition to the injury blows, England manager Gareth Southgate has ruled out captain Harry Kane due to an ankle problem, while Cole Palmer and Jordan Henderson, absent from the Brazil match, are undergoing assessments.
Replacing Walker, Ezri Konsa steps up, while newcomers Kobbie Mainoo and Anthony Gordon earned their first caps against Brazil. Jarrad Branthwaite is set to join the squad following Maguire's withdrawal.
Belgium faced similar injury setbacks, with top scorer Romelu Lukaku sidelined for the Ireland draw due to a groin issue. However, Lukaku is expected to be fit to face England. Kevin De Bruyne's absence, though, poses a challenge for Belgium, but they have plenty of attacking options, including Jeremy Doku and Dodi Lukebakio.
In goal, Thomas Kaminski made his Belgium debut in the dying moments of the Ireland game as Matz Sels was substituted. However, Koen Casteels will miss out due to a shoulder injury.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
England possible starting lineup:Pickford; Konsa, Stones, Branthwaite, Gomez; Mainoo, Rice; Bowen, Bellingham, Rashford; Toney
Belgium possible starting lineup:
Kaminski; Meunier, Faes, Theate, Deman; Tielemans, Onana, Vermeeren; Bakayoko, Lukaku, Doku
EXPERT PREDICTION
England 2-2 Belgium
Although we're optimistic that England will analyze their loss to Brazil and find a way through Belgium's defense, it's clear that without Kane or Saka, they lack their usual attacking prowess. This could result in a rather uneventful draw for Southgate's side this week.
