Belgium can boast a formidable defence
Photos: Belgian FA
‘Just give us a goal. That’s all we are singing’ – Scotland face superstar defence
by Steve Clare, Glasgow
Looking back, this talented Belgian squad may think that third place at the Russian World Cup was a disappointment. With players like Eden Hazard, Kevin de Bruyne, Marouane Fellaini, Thibaut Courtois, Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen and Romelu Lukaku, there was no reason why Belgium should not have conquered the world.
But they didn’t, France having played them off the park tactically in the semi final, leaving Belgium to win the 3rd place playoff where they beat England for the second time in the World Cup, England’s third defeat in their ‘successful’ campaign.
Now Roberto Martinez’s side are back to square one and preparing for their assault in the UEFA Nations League (UNL). Lukaku, Hazard and the underrated Dries Mertens are among those heading to Hampden where they will face Scotland.
The back four of big beasts Alderweireld (Tottenham), Thomas Vermaelen (Barcelona), Vincent Kompany (Manchester City) and Vertonghen (Tottenham) are all in the squad for Scotland. If Scotland break beyond them, they may find Real Madrid keeper Courtois waiting patiently.
It’s a phenomenally talented defensive line up for anyone, never mind a nation of Belgium’s side and relatively modest football history.
Therefore, it will be quite an achievement even for Scotland to score. That task falls to Celtic’s Leigh Griffiths, Heart of Midlothian’s Steven Naismith and Sporting KC’s Johnny Russell, who are the three recognisable forwards in Alex McLeish’s squad.
Johnny Russell in action for Sporting Kansas City
Photo: Corbin Elliott/Prost Amerika
Stuart Armstrong of Southampton would appear to be among the strongest in a deep midfield with Manchester United’s Scott McTominay still young an partially unproven at the top level. With Liverpool’s Andy Robertson now named as the new Scotland captain, Celtic’s Kieran Tierney fill be second choice for left back.
Sadly Fulham skipper Tom Cairney is ruled out through an injury he sustained against Burnley but he must surely be part of McLeish’s future plans, along with club colleague Kevin McDonald who may win his second cap. The Carnoustie born defender has looked among the better performers in a Fulham defence that has shipped nine goals in just four league games.
Although this is a friendly, both sides will have an eye on the upcoming UNL where the quality of their opponents reflect their recent varying fortunes. The Red Devils play Switzerland and Iceland while Scotland have Israel and Albania in their group, starting with the Balkan state at home on Monday.
That will be an easier prospect as Albania lie 58th in the FIFA Rankings as opposed to Belgium who are second.
In the near recent days, the Scotland fans used to chant ‘Just give us a goal. That’s all we are singing’. Against such a defence of superstars, that might be more than appropriate as a song for tonight.
