Engels in Basis, Lukaku-Openda Duo: A Winning Formula for Belgium?
The Belgian national team is gearing up for the upcoming international break, and there's a lot of excitement surrounding the potential return of Romelu Lukaku. With the forward back in top form and potentially partnering with the young and dynamic Loïs Openda, Belgium has a chance to field a truly lethal attacking duo. However, the question remains: will Roberto Martinez opt for a front two, and if so, who will fill the other attacking positions?
The Return of Lukaku
Lukaku's recent performances with Inter Milan have been impressive, showcasing the same power, skill, and clinical finishing that made him a star in the Premier League. His return to the Belgian squad is a significant boost, and his partnership with Openda has the potential to be extremely dangerous.
The Rise of Openda
Loïs Openda, with his pace and goal-scoring prowess, has emerged as a key player for both club and country. His dynamic style complements Lukaku's strength perfectly. Openda is a nightmare for defenders due to his quick feet and ability to find space in the box. The duo's ability to stretch defenses and create scoring opportunities could be crucial for Belgium's success.
The Role of Engels
While Lukaku and Openda are vying for the striking spots, the presence of Dries Mertens adds another layer of complexity to the equation. Mertens, despite his age, remains a threat in the final third. His experience and versatility could be crucial for Belgium, potentially filling the role of a playmaker or a second striker, depending on Martinez's tactical approach.
The Importance of Flexibility
Martinez has always emphasized the importance of flexibility and adaptability in his tactics. He might opt for a 4-4-2 formation, deploying Lukaku and Openda as a front two, with Mertens operating behind them. Alternatively, he could utilize a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Openda leading the line and Lukaku and Mertens supporting from wide positions.
The Key Questions
With so many attacking options at his disposal, Martinez faces some key decisions:
- Will he choose to play Lukaku and Openda together from the start?
- If so, how will he integrate Mertens into the lineup?
- Will he continue to utilize a 4-3-3 formation or opt for a more traditional two-striker system?
The answers to these questions will determine the shape and firepower of the Belgian attack.
The potential for this attacking trio is undeniable, but its effectiveness will depend on the tactical choices made by Roberto Martinez. The upcoming international break will offer an opportunity for Martinez to experiment and find the right combination to unlock the full potential of his attacking players. Ultimately, the success of Belgium hinges on their ability to adapt and create a cohesive attacking unit that can deliver goals and wins.