Riemer under pressure during international break: coach in storm's eye
While the league is already in full swing and matchday 7 took place last weekend, the international break offers a busy agenda for the Jupiler Pro League clubs. For coach Riemer, however, this means a growing storm, as Denmark lost to Norway for the first time in 28 years.
International break puts Riemer under pressure
The league is now running at full speed, and matchday 7 was already played last weekend. As a result, Jupiler Pro League teams can now take a short break or prepare for the continuation of the season.
“The problem is that we have two players with the same profile in midfield. Maybe the coach should pick one and leave the other on the bench, to give the team priority over our individual performances,” said captain Pierre‑Emile Højbjerg in the mixed zone after the match between Denmark and Norway. The Danish team suffered a defeat to the Norwegians for the first time in 28 years, putting coach Riemer under increasing pressure.
Irish goalkeeper refuses participation
Ireland play on Sunday in Hungary against Israel, but goalkeeper Bazunu (ex‑Standard) refused to make himself available. According to The Irish Times, a match against Israel would go against his personal values, and he traveled with the squad without playing.
A collective boycott was not initially mentioned, but Bazunu’s decision has sparked a debate within the Irish group; several players are considering the same stance. Extensive discussions caused delays both in training and the press conference, to the displeasure of the UEFA representative. With just over 24 hours until kickoff, according to the Irish media no joint decision has yet been taken.
Mancini ruled out, Belgium bank on Van Bommel against Italy
Italy struggles in Nations League
Roberto Mancini still has a lot of work ahead. The Italian national team coach previously led Italy to the European title, but the current core consists of Gianluigi Donnarumma, Riccardo Calafiori, Nicolo Barella, Moise Kean and Cambiaghi, who have not yet shown consistent top form.
The Nations League offers Mancini an interesting stage to experiment, but the competition must not be treated as a casual training ground. On Monday, a trip to Bursa in Turkey awaits; a defeat could place Italy at the bottom of the group and jeopardise relegation to Nations League B.
After the 0‑2 defeat to Belgium, Mancini found the first half disappointing: “We played against a very good team. We gave away too much space, especially in the first half. That was not enough, we should have been more aggressive and put more pressure on Belgium.” Mika Godts turned a fine assist from Kevin De Bruyne into the first goal, while the second half showed some improvement, but according to Mancini there were still too many shortcomings.
Mika Godts shines, the Red Devils dominate Italy in the first half
National team coach Mark van Bommel positioned Charles De Ketelaere as a false striker, a choice that paid off. Belgium won in Rome 0‑2 thanks to goals from Mika Godts and Dodi Lukebakio, and De Ketelaere seemed pleased with the strong first half of the Red Devils.