A wealth of world-class forwards will be on the pitch when England host Belgium for an eagerly anticipated UEFA Nations League clash at Wembley on Sunday.
England captain Harry Kane should be flanked by Raheem Sterling and Jadon Sancho in an extremely potent and dynamic attack. The Three Lions banged in 37 goals in just eight Euro 2020 qualifiers, and they were installed as the favourites to win the tournament.
An Abundance of Attacking Quality
It was pushed back to 2021 due to the pandemic, and a new generation of exciting youngsters has now emerged, with the likes of Mason Greenwood and Dominic Calvert-Lewin pushing for a starting berth at the Euros. That should pile pressure upon Kane, Sterling and Sancho to continue firing in the goals.
Competition for places is also fierce in the Belgian attack. Roberto Martinez has called up Real Madrid superstar Eden Hazard for this game, while Romelu Lukaku and Dries Mertens are flourishing in Serie A. Kevin De Bruyne is the world's most talented playmaker, and Belgium are utterly formidable going forwards.
A Lack of Defensive Solidity
However, both teams look a little shaky at the back. Harry Maguire has made a dreadful start to the season with Man Utd. John Stones is out of favour at Man City, so he has been dropped.
Liverpool's Joe Gomez could partner Maguire at the heart of the defence, but he has struggled in the early weeks of the season. James Tarkowski is injured, which deprives Gareth Southgate of a strong defensive option, and there are question marks over Eric Dier and Conor Coady.
Belgium do not look as strong at the back in the wake of Vincent Kompany's retirement. Jan Vertonghen is now over the hill and Toby Alderweireld has regress, so England will fancy their chances of getting on the score sheet in this game.
Betting Tip: Both teams to score.
Stake: One unit.
