March 23, 2025, at 19:45 GMT+0, Belgium and Ukraine’s much awaited second leg of the UEFA Nations League relegation/promotion play-off is scheduled. German referee Daniel Siebert will supervise the game at the Cegeka Arena in Genk, Belgium, guaranteeing a fiercely officiated football collision between two driven teams.
With Belgium trying to prevent League A relegation for the first time and Ukraine hoping to land promotion back to the top division with a dominant 3-1 first leg, this encounter marks the last stage of the League A/B transition war. Combining tactical football interest with huge stakes, the 23,718-capacity stadium will host a pivotal game where both clubs’ futures hang in the balance.
Betting Tips and Match Insights
Prepare for a thorough analysis that will help you to better grasp this important collision. To help you decide what to bet on, we will examine both teams’ recent results as well as their head-to-head past performance. The Belgium vs Ukraine prediction today hinges on key trends and current form, offering valuable insights for punters. With Belgium’s struggles and Ukraine’s resurgence, this section sets the stage for what’s to come. Let’s unpack the numbers and see where the smart money might lie.
Belgium Results
Under new manager Rudi Garcia, Belgium’s campaign has stumbled; their 3-1 loss to Ukraine in the opening leg reveals defensive flaws. With only one win in their last nine outings across all events, the Red Devils have battled for consistency. As they seek to reverse Genk’s deficit, their home form will be under examination.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | W/L |
| 20/03/25 | UNL | Ukraine vs Belgium | 3-1 | L |
| 17/11/24 | UNL | Israel vs Belgium | 1-0 | L |
| 14/11/24 | UNL | Belgium vs Italy | 0-1 | L |
| 14/10/24 | UNL | Belgium vs France | 1-2 | L |
| 10/10/24 | UNL | Italy vs Belgium | 2-2 | D |
Belgium’s recent record paints a grim picture, with four straight losses before this match. Their sole win in the last nine games came against Israel (3-1), suggesting potential for a strong home performance. However, conceding in every game since that victory highlights defensive vulnerabilities. The 3-1 deficit from the first leg demands an aggressive approach, but their lack of cohesion could undermine a comeback. Ukraine will look to exploit these weaknesses again.
Ukraine Results
Ukraine have found their stride under Serhiy Rebrov, carrying momentum into this second leg after a convincing first-leg win. Playing all matches away from home since late 2021 has toughened their resolve, and their unbeaten run reflects growing confidence. The victory over Belgium showcased their ability to upset higher-ranked sides.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result | W/L |
| 20/03/25 | UNL | Ukraine vs Belgium | 3-1 | W |
| 19/11/24 | UNL | Albania vs Ukraine | 1-2 | W |
| 16/11/24 | UNL | Georgia vs Ukraine | 1-1 | D |
| 14/10/24 | UNL | Ukraine vs Czech Republic | 1-1 | D |
| 11/10/24 | UNL | Ukraine vs Georgia | 1-0 | W |
Ukraine’s five-game unbeaten streak (W3, D2) signals a team peaking at the right moment. Their ability to score consistently netting in every match listed pairs well with a sturdy defense that’s conceded just four goals in that span. The first-leg triumph over Belgium stands out as a statement win. Playing away doesn’t faze them, which could neutralize Belgium’s home advantage. They’re poised to finish the job in Genk.
Belgium vs Ukraine Head-to-Head
Personal encounters between these sides have been limited but telling. The first leg of this play-off gave Ukraine a significant edge, while their Euro 2024 meeting ended goalless. Historical data offers a glimpse into their competitive balance.
| Date | Competition | Matchup | Result |
| 20/03/25 | UNL | Ukraine vs Belgium | 3-1 |
| 26/06/24 | EUR | Ukraine vs Belgium | 0-0 |
Two meetings, two different outcomes: Ukraine’s recent dominance contrasts with the earlier stalemate. The 3-1 result shows their attacking intent, while the draw suggests Belgium can frustrate them defensively when at their best. With only two games to judge, trends are nascent, but Ukraine hold the upper hand.
Predicted Lineups for Belgium vs Ukraine Football Match
Here’s a look at the likely starting XIs for this football showdown, based on recent performances and team news. These lineups reflect tactical adjustments and player availability as both sides vie for supremacy.
Belgium Possible Starting XI: Courtois (GK), Castagne (DF), Faes (DF), Debast (DF), De Cuyper (DF), Tielemans (MF), Vanaken (MF), Saelemaekers (MF), De Bruyne (MF), Trossard (MF), Lukaku (FW)
Ukraine Possible Starting XI: Lunin (GK), Konoplya (DF), Zabarnyi (DF), Matviyenko (DF), Mykolenko (DF), Shaparenko (MF), Kalyuzhnyi (MF), Zinchenko (MF), Tsygankov (FW), Sudakov (MF), Vanat (FW)
Unavailable Players
Injuries and absences could sway this contest. Here’s who might miss out, based on the provided data.
| Team | Player | Reason |
| Belgium | Ameen Al-Dakhil | Bench (rotation risk) |
| Ukraine | Artem Dovbyk | Illness (doubtful) |
Belgium may shuffle their defense after a shaky first leg, with Al-Dakhil potentially staying on the bench. Ukraine’s Dovbyk remains a question mark, but their depth up top lessens the blow.
Key Factors to Watch in Belgium vs Ukraine
This match hinges on more than just talent it’s about momentum, strategy, and execution. Both teams bring unique strengths and weaknesses to the pitch. Here are the critical elements that could decide the outcome:
- Belgium’s Defensive Struggles: Four straight losses and goals conceded in every recent game expose a backline in disarray;
- Ukraine’s Away Resilience: Unbeaten in five, they’ve thrived despite playing every match on foreign soil since 2021;
- Lukaku’s Form: Nine goal contributions in 2025 make him Belgium’s dangerman if given space;
- Vanat’s Impact: Scoring off the bench in the first leg, he’s a threat whether starting or substituting;
- Home Pressure: Belgium must win by at least two goals, which could force risky play and leave gaps;
- Rebrov’s Tactics: Ukraine’s counter-attacking style exploited Belgium before and could again;
- Courtois’ Return: His experience is a boost, but rustiness showed in Spain with three goals conceded;
- Motivation Stakes: Belgium fight relegation shame; Ukraine chase promotion glory.
Free Tips on Belgium vs Ukraine
These tips are tailored to this specific clash, drawing from stats and dynamics. They’re designed to help you navigate the betting landscape with confidence. Here’s what to consider for March 23, 2025:
- Focus on Ukraine’s Scoring Consistency: They’ve found the net in all five recent games, so backing them to score over 0.5 goals offers value, especially given Belgium’s leaky defense;
- Expect a High Card Count: With referee Daniel Siebert’s strict reputation and the match’s intensity, over 3.5 cards is a solid bet as tensions rise;
- Bank on Lukaku’s Threat: His 2025 form (5 goals, 4 assists) suggests he’ll test Lunin consider a ‘Lukaku to score anytime’ wager;
- Look for a Tight First Half: Both teams may start cautiously, making under 1.5 goals before halftime a smart pick based on their Euro 2024 draw;
- Leverage Ukraine’s Counter-Attack Edge: If Belgium push forward, Ukraine could punish them explore ‘both teams to score’ as a likely outcome;
- Weather Check: Late March in Genk could bring rain, slowing play and favoring Ukraine’s compact style over Belgium’s attack.
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Belgium vs Ukraine Match Prediction 2025
Belgium face an uphill battle, but their home advantage and attacking firepower give them a shot at a narrow win. However, overturning a two-goal deficit against a confident Ukraine side looks daunting. The Red Devils’ desperation could yield a 2-1 victory, driven by Lukaku and De Bruyne, yet Ukraine’s aggregate lead (4-3) should hold firm. Belgium vs Ukraine odds reflect this tension, with bookmakers likely favoring a tight contest. Ukraine’s form unbeaten in five and their first-leg dominance suggest they’ve got the mental edge. Belgium’s defense has crumbled too often, conceding in every game of their current skid, while Ukraine’s adaptability away from home seals their promotion case. Expect goals, intensity, and a brave Ukrainian stand.
Our Prediction: Belgium 2-1 Ukraine
| Prediction Type | Prediction | Odds |
| Match Result | Belgium to Win | 1.47 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 1.83 |
| Total Goals | Over 2.5 | 1.68 |
This match promises excitement, and there’s plenty of value to be found in the betting markets. Whether you’re backing Belgium’s fightback or Ukraine’s resilience, now’s the time to get involved. Place your bet on the match – Belgium vs Ukraine – at bc.game, where competitive odds and a seamless platform await. Don’t miss out on the action join the thrill and make your prediction count with a trusted betting partner!
