Belgium: van Bommel puts win in Italy at service of solid defence
In the studio, the analyst announces that the broadcast “Follow Belgium” starts at 8:45 pm, as manager Mark van Bommel prepares his eleven to face France. After four matches played in a short time, the win in Italy has already brought a breath of fresh air to his setup.
Goalkeeper choice without suspense
Senne Lammens has given full and complete satisfaction in the recent matches, which eliminates any doubt about his starting place. Mike Penders, for his part, remains injured and unavailable, making the number 1 spot clearly assigned to Lammens.
Waiting for Vandevoordt
Maarten Vandevoordt will still have to wait before making his big debut, even though an appearance in Liège against Turkey is mentioned as possible. Van Bommel does not want to risk the stability of a solid central defence for such a crucial match.
Back line and offensive options
Nathan Ngoy is already undisputed, while Brandon Mechele brings a very useful experience. Zeno Debast could shake up the hierarchy, but he is rather earmarked for the upcoming matches. On the flanks, even without Kylian Mbappé, the French wings remain world‑class, with Olise, Doué or Barcola suggested by Zidane.
Lavia shines, Ngoy five stars, De Bruyne far from Rome
Castagne has no competition on the right, but De Cuyper has also been considered on the left. Joaquin Seys, brilliant against Lamine Yamal, enjoys the manager’s confidence.
Midfield and alternatives
Youri Tielemans, captain, should remain in the starting lineup, but van Bommel could rest Kevin De Bruyne to preserve the international break. Hans Vanaken, back from Rome, is the obvious backup. Nicolas Raskin lost points in the first selection, while Roméo Lavia, liked by the manager, could start against France.
The Chelsea midfielder, already well established in Italy, could bring a more physical profile. Mika Godts, following his showcase at the Stadio Olimpico, should be retained, especially against a highly motivated France. Diego Moreira could alternate the joker role with Dodi Lukebakio, and De Ketelaere seems well settled up front.
Mark van Bommel sees his son benefit from a last‑minute forfeit
In summary, the envisaged lineup reads as follows: Lammens – Seys – Mechele – Ngoy – Castagne / Lavia – Tielemans – De Bruyne – Godts – De Ketelaere – Lukebakio.