Belgium vs Ukraine

Belgium will look to overcome a two-goal deficit when they meet Ukraine in the second leg of their UEFA Nations League quarter-final tie at the Cegeka Arena. 

Belgium suffered a harsh reality check in Spain last week, succumbing to a 3-1 loss to Ukraine in the first leg of their play-off, and are on the brink of relegation from League A for the first time. It was a dismal debut for new manager Rudi Garcia, who made some bold choices, including recalling goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after almost two years. Belgium’s poor form has seen them win just one of their last nine games across all competitions (D2, L6), a run that started with a 0-0 draw against Ukraine at Euro 2024. To avoid relegation, the Red Devils must secure their first-ever H2H win against Ukraine (D1, L1) and replicate or improve on their sole victory during this run – a 3-1 triumph over Israel.

Ukraine had faced relatively easier opposition in 2024, being in League B, but they continued their strong form into the first leg against Belgium, extending their unbeaten run to five matches (W3, D2). Head coach Serhiy Rebrov admitted pre-match that last week’s win would count for little if they can’t convert it into a return to League A for the first time since the 2020/21 season. Having played all their matches away from home since late 2021, Ukraine should have no issue dealing with Belgium’s home advantage. However, beating top-ranked sides is not something Rebrov’s team is accustomed to, with Thursday’s victory marking their first win over a team currently ranked in FIFA’s top ten since October 2020.