No Deekens, but Colman: Red Wolves Euro qualifier vs Germany, Italy
In the Alverberg in Hasselt the red wolf is ready for a crucial week: captain Quinten Colman leads the Red Wolves, a squad of twenty players, in two Euro‑qualifying‑pre‑match assignments against Germany on 5 November in Berlin and Italy on 7 November at home.
Selection and injuries
Goalkeeper Nick Deekens remains absent due to a finger injury; he is still recovering from surgery on the ring finger of his right hand. Milan De Grave, who is playing in Germany this season, takes his place. Beside him are goalkeeper Arthur Vanhove, midfielder Yves Vancosen, goal scorer Raphaël Kötters and captain Quinten Colman.
First match against Germany
Belgium opens the qualification campaign on Thursday 5 November in Berlin against Germany, the vice‑Olympic and vice‑European champion. The duel marks the first test for the Red Wolves without Deekens.
Second confrontation with Italy
Two days later, on Saturday 7 November, the Red Wolves host Italy in the Alverberg in Hasselt. The Italian team is indicated in the source with the abbreviation ITA.
National coach Cherif Hamani, in the role of National Coach, has called up the twenty‑man squad and emphasizes that the team must perform without their regular goalkeeper.
Also Belgian Player of the Year Dree Riské is part of the selection, underscoring the quality of the group.
An overview of the sports calendar shows Football, Cycling, Tennis, Formula 1, Basketball, Cyclo‑cross and various Programs, with which the Red Wolves join a broad sporting spectrum.
The Red Wolves Black Arrows, a sub‑unit within the team, are ready to take on the challenges of the Euro‑qualifying‑pre‑match.
With two tough assignments awaiting, the team must show that despite Deekens' absence they remain competitive and fulfil their ambitions for the Euro.