Belgium – Montenegro Match Preview and Prediction

June 5. 9:30 PM. Brussels. “King Baudouin Stadium”

Friendly match

Belgium vs Montenegro

Suspended players: none

Belgium – Montenegro: Bookmakers’ odds

Belgium

After the 2022 World Cup, the Belgian national team entered a phase of generational change. Therefore, it is not surprising that the ‘Red Devils’ are not among the main favorites for Euro 2024 (bookmakers place the team in eighth place). However, this could work in the team’s favor. Low expectations reduce the psychological pressure on Domenico Tedesco and his players, allowing the Belgians to feel more open and confident on the football field. Furthermore, the ‘Red Devils’ have some surprises up their sleeves. The team has welcomed several new players who have the potential to be a revelation at Euro 2024, including Johan Bakayoko, who had a brilliant season with PSV, catching the attention of top European clubs.

It is worth noting that under the guidance of Domenico Tedesco, the Belgian national team has not lost yet. The current unbeaten streak stands at 12 matches (8 wins, 4 draws), but the ‘Red Devils’ are determined to extend it to 14 before Euro 2024. As part of their preparation for the tournament, the Belgians have scheduled two friendly matches, the first of which will be against Montenegro.

Montenegro

The ‘Brave Falcons’ failed to qualify for the European Championship, finishing behind Hungary and Serbia in their group. The disappointment in the qualifiers led to changes in the managerial position: in February of this year, the team was taken over by the Croatian football legend Robert Prosinecki.

The debut of the 55-year-old coach was very successful. In March, under his leadership, the Montenegrin national team won both friendly matches: first defeating Belarus 2-0, and then North Macedonia 1-0 a few days later.

Overall, Montenegro has shown a decent performance in their recent games. The ‘Brave Falcons’ have won five of their last eight matches, only losing to Serbia and Hungary – both away from home.

Belgium – Montenegro: Author’s Prediction

Previously, Belgium and Montenegro national teams crossed paths only once: in May 2012 in a friendly match between the two teams, a 2-2 draw was recorded. The upcoming match is likely to be special for Kevin De Bruyne – his 100th appearance for the Belgian national team. I am confident that the attacking midfielder of Manchester City will want to mark the occasion with a goal or at least an assist, and his teammates will give the jubilee a victory. My choice is Belgium (-1.5) handicap.