Mark van Bommel will likely make several changes to the Belgium starting lineup for Friday’s UEFA Nations League match against Turkey at Sclessin, with some alterations forced by suspensions and player management. Following a 0-1 defeat to France at the King Baudouin Stadium, the manager evaluates tactical adjustments while preserving the solid defensive structure and midfield connectivity his team displayed against the French.
The fixture in Liège brings immediate lineup decisions across the pitch. Midfielder Roméo Lavia produced an impressive display during his first international start against France, but van Bommel is managing his workload, opening a potential starting spot for Nicolas Raskin in the stadium where the midfielder played before moving to Rangers.
Van Bommel Considers Rotating De Bruyne and Benching Lukaku
Youri Tielemans is expected to start as captain, though van Bommel weighs whether to rotate Kevin De Bruyne after two intensive 60-minute outings. Hans Vanaken emerges as the primary candidate to step into the playmaker role and supply attacking creativity if De Bruyne is rested.
Van Bommel’s final selection left Romelu Lukaku on the bench, with Charles De Ketelaere retaining his place in the front line. Sporza readers surveyed ahead of the match also favored deploying Dodi Lukebakio in a false nine role rather than starting Lukaku.
Lukebakio May Replace Suspended Moreira on the Right
Changes on the right flank are mandatory. Diego Moreira serves a suspension following two yellow cards, ruling him out against Turkey. Dodi Lukebakio stands as the leading candidate to fill the vacant spot after two strong substitute appearances, though Malick Fofana is also an option.
A second defensive alteration on the right remains under consideration. Timothy Castagne started previous matches, but van Bommel could test a different profile against Turkey by handing Kyriani Sabbe his senior international debut.
Belgium Face Turkey at Sclessin on Friday
Belgium faces Turkey at Sclessin with kickoff scheduled for 20:45 local time on Friday. The fixture marks the third match in the Nations League as the Red Devils look to rebound from their narrow loss to France.
