Belgium: Italy have changed since Rome, we must win

Van Bommel says Italy have evolved since their last meeting and Belgium must win to reach the Nations League quarter-finals, with Lukaku available.

Belgium manager Mark Van Bommel has acknowledged that Italy have changed since their head-to-head encounter, evolving in their tactical approach and personnel. Speaking to Sky Sport ahead of their Nations League clash in Brussels, Van Bommel stressed the importance of victory for Belgium, who sit one point behind Italy with one group match remaining.

While Italy can qualify for the quarter-finals with either a win or a draw, Belgium must secure all three points.

"Italy have excellent quality and young players," Van Bommel said. "They can play for a draw, but we must win. We want to win everywhere, whether it's against Italy, a qualifier, or any other match." He added that while the match is crucial, he doesn't consider it a final, though it functions as a knockout tie.

Van Bommel confirmed that Romelu Lukaku has recovered from injury and is available for selection, describing the striker's experience in big matches as a potential advantage.