Belgium v Italy Euro 2016 Betting Tips 13/06/16

In our Belgium v Italy Betting Tips guide we discuss the both sides potential squad lineup, which has the upper-hand as well give you some suggestions as to what bets to be placing before the game.

Belgium have been a team in transition for over a decade having failed to qualify for five consecutive competitions up to 2012. This current crop of players could be regarded as a golden generation with Belgium reaching the quarter-finals of World Cup 2014.

Belgium’s talent have a real chance in France

With a diverse mix of players with pace and technical ability in all areas of the field, they have the potential to be a real dark-horse and a treat in Euro 2016.

That said this season has been difficult for some players in the Belgium squad. Eden Hazard who received PFA player of the year for 2014/15 and scored more than 14 goals for that season has gone into meltdown this year following Mourinho’s departure only picking up 4 goals this season.

Manchester City stars Kevin De Bruyne and Vincent Kompany have both fought with injury this season and have taken time to get back into the Pellegrini’s first-team. So although we agree with other pundits of their potential, much of the top-players performances could impact the team.

Conte’s difficult decision

Italy are a shadow of the side that won the World Cup in 2006 and reached the final of Euro 2016. But Italian head coach Antonio Conte is keen to play down the Azzurri’s chances this time round. Conte’s decision to leave veteran midfielder Andrea Pirlo and “magic” Mario Balotelli out of the squad due to their lack of competitive football wasn’t an easy one, the Italian manager said:

“I have to find the right choice for Italy and not for my heart. I’m not happy that Andrea isn’t here, but this is life and we must continue.”

Conte also had a major setback in May when it was announced that PSG midfielder Marco Verratti would undergo surgery for a groin injury and be ruled out of Euro 2016. Add to this the lack of firepower up front and you can see why Conte has plays down Italy’s chances.

Both teams performed well during qualification taking 7/10 wins with only Italy ahead without any losses. Italy will certain pay the price for the Verratti’s absence in midfield and without a world-class striker they will struggle to break down Belgium’s back-four.

Even with some Belgium players inconsistencies during the season we’re still tipping them to dominate possession and take a comfortable win ahead of the Italian’s. It will be a case of damage limitation for the Italian’s with an aim to get something out of the following two games after this to progress further.

When and what time is the game on?

Belgium v Italy – Monday 13th June
Parc OL, Lyon | KO – 20:00
Watch on BBC One from 19:00