Charles De Ketelaere says his time in Italy has changed him as a player ahead of Belgium’s decisive UEFA Nations League match against Italy on Sunday in Brussels.
The Belgian midfielder said the Italian game has helped him mature tactically, describing it as a different style that has made him better prepared for a high-stakes match. Belgium host Italy at the Koning Boudewijnstadion with a place among the top two in Group 1 still in play.
De Ketelaere sees clear progress
De Ketelaere’s comments came as Belgium continued its buildup to a match that could shape the group picture. He said the Italian league has changed him, stressing the tactical side of the competition and the impact it has had on his development.
That background adds another layer to a meeting that already carries weight. Belgium beat Italy 2-0 earlier in the campaign, and the reverse fixture now arrives with both teams knowing how much is at stake.
Belgium enter with confidence, but little margin for error
Belgium’s recent form has shown both resilience and quality. After losing to France, the team recovered, then beat Turkey 2-1 in Esmirna with goals from Charles De Ketelaere and Kevin De Bruyne. De Ketelaere said Belgium had to work through a difficult spell in that match, but found a solution after the equalizer and played better.
He also made clear that Belgium will not be an easy opponent. In his view, the team is strong and difficult to beat, a useful reminder as Sunday’s match approaches. For Belgium, the task is simple: stay in the hunt among the group’s top two and handle a familiar opponent in a match that should demand discipline as much as attacking quality.
