Domenico Tedesco and the Red Devils prepare for their last qualifier match for Euro 2024 against Azerbaijan on Sunday at 6 PM.
Tedesco stressed the importance of the game in a press conference in Tubize on Saturday. “This isn’t a test, it’s an important match,” he stated. A win would see Belgium overtake Austria, currently in first place of Group F but with a game in hand.
Referencing Azerbaijan’s track record, including a narrow loss to Austria and a 3-0 victory over Sweden, he indicated respect for their capabilities.
Reluctant to disclose his strategy, Tedesco hinted at slight changes in the squad to keep it fresh. Emphasising the importance of the upcoming match, he acknowledged a potential shuffle akin to the one against Serbia.
Tedesco spoke highly of Jan Vertonghen, who showed positive form during recent training sessions. Despite good performances from younger players against Serbia, he doesn’t feel a need for changes to the central defence, praising Vertonghen and Faes’ performance.
Romelu Lukaku, who rested during the Serbia match, is expected to make a comeback. Amadou Onana, Zinho Vanheusden, and Arnaud Bodart will be missing from the initial selection due to a calf problem, thigh injury, and illness respectively.
Finally, in response to queries about the pitch quality, Tedesco concluded, “we will play without excuses.”
