Mark van Bommel aims for victory at Sclessin, language aside

Mark van Bommel expects a decisive evening as Belgium host Turkey this Friday at 8:45 p.m. at the Sclessin stadium, for its third Nations League match. The Red Devils, with three points, are aiming for three points in front of the Liège crowd.

The Red Devils have three points after their 2-0 win over Italy and their 0-1 loss to France at the King Baudouin Stadium. Turkey, bottom of the group, have collected no points. This points gap makes the match decisive for Belgium.

Mark van Bommel is targeting three points in front of the Liège crowd. “We want to win every match we play, even more so when it’s at home. The Sclessin stadium must fire us up,” he said at a press conference. He wants every player to feel motivated.

Analysis of Turkish strengths

Van Bommel does not rely solely on results. He studied Turkey’s recent matches and noted the considerable number of chances created. “Turkey have zero points because they have lost twice. But I have watched their recent matches, they have generated a considerable number of chances,” he said.

According to the coach, the Turks often dominate in terms of expected goals but struggle to convert their chances into goals. “In terms of expected goals, they have constantly outperformed their opponents. It is undoubtedly the efficiency that is their focus. Friday’s match is crucial,” he added. A win would put Belgium six units ahead of Turkey after three matchdays.

Managing multilingualism

The language issue was also addressed. Van Bommel explains that he speaks Dutch with the players and that his assistants Boudewijn Zenden and Maarten Martens intervene in French when necessary. “I speak Dutch with the players, I think everyone understands. My assistants speak French when needed,” he clarified. A method that works.

Some players can act as intermediaries. Midfielder Youri Tielemans is often called upon to translate when a teammate needs help. “Some players, I think of Youri Tielemans for example, act as translators if needed. I sincerely believe there is no issue regarding the linguistic aspect within the group,” the coach said.

To get closer to the group, Van Bommel has started taking French lessons. About half the players are French‑speaking, but they manage in both languages. No debate is needed, the players found the controversy ridiculous.