Belgium vs France Preview (odds 2.75) and Betting Picks for the Nations League Match on October 14, 2024

Current Form

In their last match, Belgium faced Italy away and was down 0-2 by the 24th minute. Italy had a clear upper hand in the game, and it seemed that coach Tedesco's team wouldn't score any points. However, just before halftime, Pellegrini from Italy received a red card, which shifted the momentum. Belgium managed to equalize with a 2-2 draw, keeping them in contention for the top two spots in the group. After three matches, Belgium sits third in the standings with four points, trailing second-place France by two points and first-place Italy by three points.

Overall, Belgium's performance has been underwhelming. While they performed well against Israel, winning 3-1, they suffered a 0-2 defeat to France, allowing numerous chances for the opponent. Additionally, Belgium struggled against Italy until the red card incident.

There are evident defensive issues for the Belgian national team, reflected in five goals conceded over three Nations League games. Even the modest team from Israel managed to penetrate Tedesco's defense.

Suspensions and Injuries

It is clear that many of Belgium's issues stem from the absence of key players such as De Bruyne, Lukaku, and Courtois. The midfield has notably lacked De Bruyne's influence in build-up play.

Betting Trends of Interest

• Belgium has not won in the first half of their last five matches across all competitions
• In their previous four matches, Belgium failed to keep a clean sheet
• In four of the last six home matches in the Nations League, Belgium has seen five or more goals scored

Projected Lineup: Castells – Castagne, Debast, Faes, De Keper – Tielemans, Mangala – Doku, De Ketelaere, Trossard – Openda.

Current Form

France began its Nations League campaign with an unexpected loss to Italy (1-3). They scored in the first minute, but after that, Italy dominated the match and earned a well-deserved victory.

The setback in the opening match clearly motivated the French players. In their second match, they executed a solid defensive performance against Belgium, registering nine shots on target, creating numerous chances, and winning 3-2. This was followed by another impressive offensive display against Israel, with a 4-1 victory away. After that match, even Didier Deschamps was surprised by how effectively his squad performed in attack.

With six points after three matches, France sits in second place in the group, just one point behind Italy. Notably, the team is playing without Kylian Mbappé, but the head coach has a wide array of talent at his disposal, particularly in midfield and attack. Deschamps can enhance the team's performance with substitutions at any moment. For instance, in the match against Israel, substitutes Guendouzi and Barcola scored two late goals.

Suspensions and Injuries

Kylian Mbappé and Upamecano will not play today.

Interesting Betting Trends

• In three of France's last four matches, at least three goals have been scored.
• In six of their last seven away Nations League matches, France has not lost in regular time (four wins and two draws).
• France has defeated Belgium with a clean sheet in their last two encounters.

Projected Lineup: Maignan – Koundé, Konaté, Saliba, Hernandez – Camavinga, Tchouaméni – Dembélé, Guendouzi, Barcola – Kolo Muani.