Belgium will be under pressure going into their crucial Group E match against Northern Ireland in the Euro 2016 at Stade de Bordeaux in Bordeaux. They came into the tournament as a favourite. But that tag lasted just for a single match, against Italy. Now the team looks disjointed, confused and diffident.

The big question now is can they beat Republic of Ireland. They can, but may not. Republic of Ireland was quietly efficient in their 1-1 draw with Sweden in the opening fixture. They did not appear a world-beating side. But against Belgium, they can cause a serious upset. Bet365 has odds of 4/1 for a Republic of Ireland win and 5/2 for a draw. Doesn’t it look tempting?

Belgium

Belgium’s golden generation is fast-becoming charcoal. They have a bunch of dazzlingly creative attackers, led by Eden Hazard and Kevin de Bruyne. Romelu Lukaku and Divock Origi are decent goal-scorers for their clubs. Thibaut Courtois is among the world’s best goal-keepers. What Belgium lacks is collective confidence. The team does not exhibit the will to win.

A win against Ireland can take them to the next round. But a mere win will not spark a turn-around. What they need is thumping win with a cloudburst of goals. Only that will be the catalyst for Belgium’s transformation in the Euro 2016.

Republic of Ireland

Republic of Ireland does not have the baggage of expectations. They are a group of hard-working footballers. Northern Ireland’s and Hungary’s wins against more fancied opponents will motivate them. If they win, they are through to the next round.

Jonathan Walters is a doubtful starter for this match. James McClean could start in his absence. James McCarthy, Shane Long and Wes Hoolahan will be the key figures in attack.

Belgium - Republic of Ireland match facts

• Belgium leads the H2H record against Republic of Ireland 2-0 in seven matches. In fact, Belgium has never lost against Republic of Ireland. But you cannot read much into these stats. It has been close to two decades since these teams last met.

Belgium - Republic of Ireland betting tips

Belgium to win 1.80 @ bet365