U21 Euro Cup, Italy v. Belgium: How to Watch, Lineups & Match Discussion

The Azzurrini find themselves in an unexpected and unfavorable favorable position when they take the field for their final Group A match against Belgium on Saturday. It looked like all was going according to plan for Luigi Di Biagio’s men when they came from behind in their opening match against powerhouse Spain. That all went out the window on Wednesday when the Azzurrini fell to Poland, 1-0, despite dominating for the majority of the match.

The host Azzurrini now find themselves in the unenviable spot of not only having to beat Belgium today, but also relying on help in order to qualify for the semifinal round. Italy can qualify in two ways. Of course they must win, then either hope for Spain to beat Poland but by less than three goals. If Poland doesn’t lose then the Azzurrini would need to finish ahead of the Group B & C runner-ups on goal differential.

With qualification looking so difficult, one wonders where this fall in the failures of Italian football. This side is not only hosting the tournament but is chock full of talent. The Azzurrini will have to come out guns blazing, take the game to Belgium to secure the three points, and then hope for the best.

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Italy U21 v. Belgium U21

Kickoff: 15:00 EDT/21:00 CDT

Venue: Mapei Stadium, Sassuolo

Streaming: ESPN3