How does Saelemakers’ inclusion impact Belgium’s defensive capabilities on the right flank?

last-minute Changes for Liechtenstein vs. Belgium: Saelemakers on Right, Openda Leads Attack

Tactical Shift: Belgium’s lineup Adjustments

Ahead of the crucial Liechtenstein vs. Belgium qualifier, Roberto Martínez has announced some surprising last-minute changes to the starting eleven. The most notable adjustment sees Aster Saelemakers deployed on the right wing, replacing the initially expected Johan Bakayoko. This tactical tweak is largely influenced by Saelemakers’ recent form with AC Milan and his proven ability to contribute both offensively and defensively. The shift aims to provide more tactical adaptability and defensive solidity against a potentially compact Liechtenstein side. Expect a focus on swift transitions and utilizing Saelemakers’ crossing ability.

Openda Spearheads the Belgian Attack

Loïs Openda will lead the line for the Red Devils, a clear indication of Martínez’s intent to prioritize pace and directness in attack. This decision comes after Openda’s impressive start to the season with RB Leipzig, where he’s already established himself as a key goal-scoring threat.

Here’s a breakdown of what Openda brings to the table:

Pace and Movement: Openda’s blistering pace will stretch the Liechtenstein defense.

Finishing Ability: He’s a clinical finisher,capable of converting chances in tight spaces.

Pressing intensity: Openda’s high work rate will contribute to Belgium’s pressing game.

Link-up Play: While primarily a goalscorer, he’s also capable of bright link-up play with supporting midfielders.

Saelemakers’ Role: Beyond Just Wing Play

the decision to start Saelemakers isn’t solely about providing width. Martínez clearly values his work rate and tactical intelligence.

Consider these aspects of his potential impact:

1. Defensive Contribution: Saelemakers is known for tracking back and supporting the right-back, offering crucial defensive cover.
2. Crossing Accuracy: His pinpoint crosses will be a key weapon in Belgium’s attacking arsenal.
3. Dribbling skills: He can beat defenders one-on-one, creating opportunities for himself and teammates.
4. Interplay with De Bruyne: Expect to see a dynamic connection between Saelemakers and Kevin De Bruyne, with the latter looking to exploit space created by the winger.

Midfield Dynamics: Tielemans and Onana Partnership

Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana will form the central midfield partnership, tasked with controlling the tempo and providing a shield for the defense. This pairing offers a blend of technical skill and physical presence. Tielemans’ passing range and vision will be crucial in unlocking the Liechtenstein defense, while Onana’s tackling and aerial ability will provide defensive stability.The midfield battle will be a key area to watch, as Liechtenstein will likely attempt to disrupt Belgium’s rhythm through physical challenges.

Liechtenstein’s Expected approach & Belgium’s Countermeasures

Liechtenstein is expected to adopt a defensive, compact formation, aiming to frustrate Belgium and hit them on the counter-attack. they will likely prioritize organization and discipline, making it difficult for Belgium to break them down.

Belgium’s countermeasures will likely focus on:

Patience in Possession: Maintaining possession and patiently probing for openings.

Exploiting Wide Areas: Utilizing the pace and crossing ability of Saelemakers and potentially Jeremy Doku.

Quick Transitions: Capitalizing on turnovers in possession with swift counter-attacks.

Set-Piece Threat: Belgium possesses several aerial threats, making set-pieces a potential source of goals.

Key Battles to watch: Liechtenstein vs. Belgium

Several individual battles will be pivotal in determining the outcome of the match:

Openda vs.Liechtenstein’s Center-Backs: Openda’s pace and movement will test the speed and positioning of the Liechtenstein defenders.

Saelemakers vs. Liechtenstein’s Left-Back: This duel will be crucial in determining which side gains control of the right flank.

Tielemans vs. Liechtenstein’s Defensive Midfielder: The battle for midfield supremacy will dictate the tempo of the game.

De Bruyne vs. Liechtenstein’s Entire Defensive Structure: De Bruyne’s creativity and passing range will be key to unlocking the Liechtenstein defense.

Recent Form & Head-to-Head Record

Belgium enters the match as overwhelming favorites, boasting a significantly superior FIFA ranking and a dominant head-to-head record against Liechtenstein. However, Martínez will be keen to avoid complacency and ensure his team maintains focus throughout the 90 minutes. Belgium’s recent qualifying form has been solid, but they’ve occasionally struggled against teams that park the bus. Liechtenstein, while unlikely to pose a serious threat, will be persistent to make life difficult for the red Devils.

Potential Impact of Substitutions

Roberto Martínez has a wealth of attacking options on the bench, including Romelu