As Nations League action heats up, Italy and Belgium are set to clash in a highly anticipated match at the iconic Stadio Olimpico in Rome, kicking off at 19:45 UK time (18:45 GMT). This showdown promises to be an exhilarating encounter as both teams vie for crucial points in the tournament.

Italy's head coach has opted for an attacking line-up, featuring Sandro Tonali, Lorenzo Pellegrini, and Mateo Retegui. The Azzurri currently sit at the top of their group, boasting impressive victories against France (3-1) and Israel (2-1), providing them with a well-deserved three-point lead over both Les Bleus and the Red Devils.

In a much-anticipated return, Riccardo Calafiori joins the squad after injury, complementing the established 3-5-2 formation. Pellegrini has been strategically chosen to support Retegui, who is currently the Serie A top scorer.

The midfield trio includes Tonali, Davide Frattesi, and in-demand Samuele Ricci, while notable absentees include Nicolò Barella, Marco Brescianini, Moise Kean, Gianluca Scamacca, and Giorgio Scalvini, all of whom are unavailable for selection.

On the other side, Belgium faces its own challenges with key players sidelined. Superstar Kevin De Bruyne, Amadou Onana, and Romelu Lukaku are out of action – the latter opting for a break to regain full fitness with Napoli. The Belgian coach has decided to field a dynamic attack led by RB Leipzig striker Lois Openda, supported by stars Charles De Ketelaere, Jeremy Doku, and Leandro Trossard in a tactical three-man defense setup.

This match has special significance for Belgium's coach, Domenico Tedesco, who was born in Italy before moving to Germany as a child. Tedesco will be eager to turn the tide against Italy, as Belgium has not secured a victory against them in competitive matches since 1972, enduring four defeats and just one draw in their last five encounters.

Predicted Line-Ups:

*Italy:* Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma Defense: Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Alessandro Bastoni, Riccardo Calafiori Midfield: Andrea Cambiaso, Davide Frattesi, Samuele Ricci, Sandro Tonali, Federico Dimarco Forward: Lorenzo Pellegrini, Mateo Retegui *Belgium:* Goalkeeper: Koen Casteels Defense: Zeno Debast, Wout Faes, Aron Theate Midfield: Thomas De Cuyper, Moustapha Mangala, Youri Tielemans Forward: Charles De Ketelaere, Jeremy Doku, Leandro Trossard, Lois Openda

With both sides eager to assert their dominance and secure valuable points, this encounter is bound to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Stay tuned for live updates and in-depth coverage as the drama unfolds!