England will face Belgium in the penultimate match of the UEFA Nations League Group A2 as both the teams vie for a spot in the finals. The match will kick off at 1:30 NST on Monday.
England rested their key players in a friendly win against the Republic of Ireland last week. The likes of skipper Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling, Kyle Walker, Eric Dier, and Jordan Henderson are all expected to start in this key clash. With manager Gareth Southgate making it clear that Jordan Pickford is his number one choice to keep the gloves, Nick Pope and Dean Henderson played a half each against Ireland.
There is some stiff competition in the right-wing with Mason Mount, Jack Grealish, and Jadon Sancho vying for a single spot. Eric Dier is expected to lead three men back along with Tyron Mings and Walker. Conor Coady is ruled out of the match.
Reece James and Harry Maguire are serving a suspension after their sending off. Kieran Trippier will start at the right-back position with Ben Chilwell on the left side. Trent Alexander-Arnold, James War Prowse, Joe Gomez, and Marcus Rashford are all sidelined due to injuries.
Hosts Belgium will be without their key men Eden Hazard in attack after he tested positive for Covid 19. Belgium will welcome back Hazard’s club teammate Thibaut Courtois back in the team. Toby Alderweireld and Jason Denayer will have Jan Vertonghen in 3-men defense.
Axel Witsel and Youri Tielemans will provide cover to defense with Borussia Dortmund duo Thorgan Hazard and Thomas Meunier playing out wide. The three men attack will be led by Romelu Lukaku as Kevin De Brune and Dries Mertens play behind him.
The competition for the top position is getting narrower as Denmark, England and Belgium all in frame to make it to next stage. Belgium have 9 points with Denmark and England on seven each. Belgium are favorites to make through as they look to extend their 27 match unbeaten run at home.
