Racing Post

SCOUTING REPORT

Manager

Roberto Martinez

The Spaniard’s possession-based approach seems well suited to a gifted generation of Belgians, who have reached the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and the top of the Fifa rankings.

Record P 54 W 42 D 8 L 4

All games

Strengths

• World-class stars De Bruyne and Lukaku are in form

• Ruthlessness against weaker opponents in qualifying

Weaknesses

• Vertonghen and Alderweireld may be past their peak

• Form and fitness doubts over star Eden Hazard

Prospects

The Red Devils must be respected although their squad looks a little less intimidating than it did at Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup. A star-studded attacking unit should be too good for their group opponents but Hazard’s poor season and a creaking defence must be concerns.

Inside info

Andy Brassell

European football journaluist

I was surprised Axel Witsel was selected given he hasn’t played since January. It would be an enormous bonus if Hazard returned to his previous level, while it’s pleasing Jan Vertonghen is fit. He played more minutes than any other outfield player in Portugal this season and can cover a few different positions.

EURO 2020 GROUP B

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2021-06-03T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-06-03T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://racingpost.pressreader.com/article/282114934511019

Racing Post