Euro 2016 has so far witnessed some exciting matches and is only hours away before the most anticipated group game of the tournament commences. The match is the opening game of Group E between Euro 1968 winners Italy and Belgium, one of the tournament’s favorites. The teams last met at a major competition in Euro 2000 where Italy comprehensively beat Belgium 2-0.
However, in their most recent meeting at Brussels last November, Belgium convincingly beat the Azzurri 3-1. Both sides will be without some of their key players as Belgium are missing Vincent Kompany and Italy will take the field without the services of Claudio Marchisio in midfield.
Given the current form of both teams, the match is expected to be a nail biting encounter. Let’s take a look at some of the players to look out for in the match which will probably decide the winner of Group E.
#1 Eden Hazard
A lot of eyes will be on Belgium’s talisman Eden Hazard who will be leading the Red Devils in the absence of an injured Vincent Kompany. Hazard, who has been regarded as one of the best players in the world is yet to make his mark for Belgium at a major tournament as he wasn’t at his best at the World Cup two summers ago.
Hazard had an overall disappointing season for Chelsea before showing a sparkle of his full potential at the fag end of the season. For the national team, however, Hazard has been in decent form and will hope to carry that form in the Euros. A lot of Belgium’s hopes will be shouldered by Hazard especially with Kompany missing the tournament.
#2 Gianluigi Buffon
Italy’s talismanic goalkeeper will be playing his final European Championship and would want to make it a memorable one. Buffon has been in sensational form for Juventus this season as he captained the Bianconeri to a fifth successive Serie A title this season. Even at 38, Buffon has been showing exceptional agility and reflexes. Buffon will be looking to replicate his club form with the national team at the Euros.Buffon led Italy to the final of Euro 2012 and would be hoping to better that performance to complete his trophy cabinet with the national team, having already won the World Cup in 2006. Italy will be relying on the experience and shot-stopping ability of Buffon to put up a strong performance in France.
#3 Kevin De Bruyne
The Manchester City playmaker is currently regarded to be one of the best in his position and was in scintillating form with City despite being sidelined for two months with a knee injury. He helped Manchester City to a League Cup title and the semi-finals of the Champions League.
De Bruyne has been in great form for the national team since the last couple of years. The world saw a glimpse of his talent at the 2014 World Cup where he had two assists and scored a crucial extra time goal against the USA in the round of 16.
He was Belgium’s joint top scorer during the Euro qualifiers, bagging five goals and the current world number two nation will be relying on De Bruyne to orchestrate the midfield and create numerous scoring opportunities. Given his current form, De Bruyne will be a player to watch out for in today’s match as well as throughout the tournament.
#4 Jan Vertonghen
The Tottenham Hotspur defender is one of the most experienced defenders in Belgium’s roster and his experience will be essential for Belgium’s defence. With Vincent Kompany out with a groin injury, Vertonghen will have the responsibility of marshalling Belgium’s defences at the Euros.
Vertonghen was in good form for Tottenham this season and played a significant role in the Spurs securing a Champions League spot. Vertonghen’s biggest credibility has been his ability to play in both defence and midfield. His versatility at midfield and defence combined with that of De Bruyne’s ability joining in the final third could prove out to be extremely beneficial for Belgium.
#5 Graziano Pelle
The Southampton striker could possibly be the answer to Italy’s strike problems. Ever since the days of Del Piero and Inzaghi, Italy have failed to find a quality striker and Pelle is perhaps the best option they’ve got in attack at present. Pelle’s accuracy combined with his aerial ability makes him a very crucial striker for Italy. Pelle had a decent season with The Saints, scoring 14 goals for them across all competitions, helping the team secure a Europa League spot.
Pelle has scored 5 goals in 13 appearances for the national team and has been in prolific form so far. Italy, who have been known for their defensive style of play will be heavily banking on Graziano Pelle to deliver for them. Graziano Pelle’s goalscoring prowess combined with Italy’s steely defence could well make Italy a very powerful team in Euro 2016.
