Although the bookmakers by no means have it as clear cut, Italy do come into this clash as favourites and we think they could impose their quality over an injury-riddled Belgium 11.

Meunier, Lavia and De Cuyper make up just three defensive names on a pretty expansive absentee list which will definitely affect their capacity to withstand Italy’s attacking force.

The last time these sides met was back in October, when Italy had scored a brace, accumulated 1.69xG, and had three shots on goal – two of which were classified as big chances alongside a third big chance which was squandered by Frattesi.

You might then be surprised to hear that that all occurred before halftime. Unfortunately, their momentum faltered in the second half courtesy of a 38th-minute red card, but even after the break Italy still had chances.

Retegui was in and amongst them, bagging himself an early goal before being hindered by defensive responsibilities as Italy were forced to defend as a unit.

Over the course of the season, he’s averaged 1.85 league shots on target per 90, the most of any player in Serie A to have clocked over two hours of football.

In his last appearance for Italy, the Atalanta star fired off seven shots, three of which tested the keeper with one beating him.

Anything but a win will condemn Belgium to the relegation play-offs at best so they’ll be forced to commit men forward which could leave them open at the back; Retegui is sure to be there to capitalise if that is the case.