Maximum pressure on Mark van Bommel ahead of Belgium‑Turkey clash in Sclessin

Mark van Bommel held a press conference Thursday afternoon to talk about the match that will pit Belgium against Turkey on Friday evening in Sclessin. The objective announced by the Red Devils is to collect the three points after the 0‑1 defeat suffered against France at the King Baudouin Stadium. Belgium must finish at least second in its group to reach the quarter‑finals of the Nations League.

Situation in the standings

Currently, the Red Devils occupy second place with three points, behind France who lead with six. Italy shares third place with Belgium, while Turkey remains last, with zero points. Winning against Turkey, dubbed the “little Poucet of the group”, is therefore essential to consolidate the position of Belgium.

Analysis of the opponent

Van Bommel studied the recent performances of Turkey and highlighted the high number of chances created by the attackers of Turkey. “In terms of expected goals, they are each time far above their opponents,” he said, adding that the pressure is even stronger because Turkey still has no points.

Red Devils gather in Sclessin ahead of clash with Turkey

He reminded that Belgium must win all its matches, but this one carries particular importance: “We are playing at home, it is the third match and Turkey has zero points.” The kickoff is scheduled for 20:45 this Friday.

After this fixture, Belgium will play another match during the international break, before traveling to the Stade de France on Monday 5 October to face France again. Two further matches are planned for November: Turkey away on the 12th and Italy at home on the 15th.

Belgian supporters will be able to follow the match live on .be from 20:45, 2 October. The pressure described by Van Bommel shows that every point matters to ensure the progression of Belgium in the Nations League.