Former world number one Belgium's Euro journey uncertain

Kapil334

This year's European Championship has been disappointing for many teams, including Belgium, a former world number one. Belgium finds itself in arguably the weakest group in terms of overall strength, yet their poor form has prevented them from finishing as group winners. This downturn has left many fans disillusioned.

Before the tournament, Belgium wasn't the top favorite for the title but was considered among the contenders, especially as the only team in Europe undefeated since the World Cup. Expectations were naturally high, especially given this might be the final major tournament for their golden generation players like De Bruyne and Lukaku.

Moreover, Belgium's group opponents were among the lowest-ranked teams globally, with Romania having the lowest squad value at 96 million euros among all Euro participants. Despite this, Belgium's performance has been disappointing. They started with a goalless draw against Slovakia, followed by a narrow win over Romania, the least valuable team. Their third match against Ukraine ended in a draw, with risks of losing even in the final moments—a performance that surely disappointed.

In the end, Belgium only advanced on goal difference with four points, alongside three other teams. Next, they face a tough knockout phase against France, the favorites for the title despite their own inconsistent form. Historically, Belgium has lost all four previous encounters against France in major tournaments, adding to the uncertainty about Belgium's prospects.

How far do you think Belgium can go in this year's European Championship?

Kalkin995

It seems Belgium is no longer the powerhouse it once was in its prime....

Jiten171

This is just the group stage for now. They might not have exerted their full effort yet.

Shri

What outcomes are impossible in sports events? After all, Belgium is a strong team, and despite their current form, they have managed to advance. The current performance doesn't necessarily dictate their entire tournament journey, unexpected events can always occur in sports.

Since they have advanced, we should dare to be optimistic about them. When we reflect on our analyses of various sports events, how many have been completely accurate? This unpredictability is the essence and charm of sports competition. Therefore, let's just wait and see without overly worrying or forming rigid opinions.

In fact, beyond the Belgians and their fans, there's no need to fret about their prospects. Instead, let's focus on each upcoming match, use our judgment wisely, and strive to profit from every game. That's what we should be doing most.

Indra55

Belgium's performance in this Euro has indeed been disappointing, especially in the group stage...

Isha000

Belgium's performance has indeed been disappointing in this Euro, especially during the group stage where losing to Slovakia, the weakest team in the group, was truly incomprehensible. Their qualification from the group was quite fortunate and not without difficulty.

Niti998

I've been betting with my colleagues that Belgium won't go far this tournament because paper strength doesn't always translate to actual performance. Looking at the goalkeeper situation, Courtois has personal issues and conflicts with the coach, which have affected his form. They've had to field other teams' goalkeepers who, despite their experience, aren't on Courtois' level. This instability in Belgium's goalkeeping is justified.

The weakest link isn't just the goalkeeper but also the defense. Castagne is a liability, and Munier is past his prime. These players being in the Belgian national team and playing as right-backs have exposed a major vulnerability. In recent games, the main defensive issues have been on the right flank. Vertonghen's form is declining due to his age; at 37, while experienced, he struggles against physically strong and younger opponents.

On a positive note, having Thibaut Courtois and the emergence of young talent like Onana are encouraging. Onana is reminiscent of Kanté—nothing is too challenging for him, only for the opposition. This combination of one attacking and one defensive player complements each other perfectly. Upfront, Lukaku is a concern as he hasn't shown convincing performances yet, and Belgium lacks a better alternative in that position.

Overall, Belgium seems rattled this tournament, lacking significant threats, especially after their disastrous loss to Romania. It's not looking optimistic!

May they overcome this ordeal, with luck on their side.

Kalkin995

I don't think Belgium will go far, after all, they're mostly old guys who can't keep up anymore.......