Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Nations League match.
Ahead of the final group stage round of the Nations League, Belgium have lost all chances of progressing to the playoffs. On neutral ground in Budapest against Israel, the team are expected to play with less pressure: a draw against the group's outsider would suffice for them, while the nominal hosts will push forward at all costs, creating opportunities for the favourites to strike on the counterattack.
Israel
A goalless draw in Paris against France (0:0) earned Israel their first points in this Nations League campaign.They still have a chance to remain in the elite division, but they need to defeat Belgium by a large margin. At the Stade de France, the standout performer was Bayern's reserve goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, who made eight saves, and the xG difference (0.05-2.22) indicated that Israel had a stroke of luck.
Belgium
Despite the absence of Kevin De Bruyne and Thibaut Courtois, Belgium have been trying to compete against much stronger sides like France and Italy. Against Italy (0:1) in the fifth round, Belgium were unlucky to concede an early goal by Sandro Tonali, and the match ended evenly in terms of shots (11-11). The return of key striker Romelu Lukaku gives Loïs Openda more freedom—Leipzig's forward is likely to find plenty of space on Sunday.
Israel vs Belgium Prediction
In the first leg, Israel managed to hold Belgium only through the first half, but two quick goals after the break decided the match in Belgium's favour (1:3). In Budapest, Belgium are expected to overcome the group's bottom side with relative ease.
