Italy vs Belgium Predictions, Betting Tips & Match Previews

The World Cup’s third/fourth playoff tends to be an open one, with neither side really taking the clash seriously. Having the same playoff in the UEFA Nations League feels wholly unnecessary, but who are we to complain about another top-class clash in a very quiet weekend?

While there isn’t a huge prize at stake there’s plenty of reason to expect an open game. Belgium are fresh from losing a 3-2 thriller against France, while Italy’s 37-game unbeaten run was ended in a 2-1 defeat by Spain.

The Italians have now seen both teams score in five of their last seven games, a run which started with a 2-1 victory over Belgium at Euro 2020. The Red Devils have scored in their last 39 internationals, so back both teams to find the net when these two clash in Turin.

Lukaku finding form

A big bonus for the Belgians was Romelu Lukaku’s impact against France. He scored one and assisted the other as the Red Devils took a 2-0 lead over the world champions. That ended a five-game run without a goal for the Chelsea man, but his international form is fantastic.

Lukaku has scored in each of his last four games for Belgium, a run which started with a strike against Italy in the summer. Lukaku has scored nine goals across his last nine appearances for his country, so back him to find the net against Italy once again.

Belgium to make a point

Roberto Mancini is expected to make some big changes to his side ahead of the third-place game, with many top names set to be handed a break. That offers an opportunity for Belgium, a side who could really use a big win after years of underachievement.

Roberto Martinez has options to rotate as well, but he’s expected to use plenty of big names and we see this as a chance for Belgium to claim a big scalp. Italy’s weakened side should be vulnerable, so back Belgium to reverse the defeat they suffered in the summer. A 2-1 win for the Red Devils is my correct score selection.