Belgium vs Turkey prediction 02.10.2026 | UEFA Nations League

Belgium’s Nations League campaign has produced one convincing result and one narrow setback. Mark van Bommel’s side beat Italy 2-0 in Rome, then lost 1-0 at home to France, conceding Michael Olise’s late winner. 

Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku remain major sources of experience and attacking quality, while the opening win over Italy showed Belgium can threaten even away from home.

The squad has notable absences. Thibaut Courtois is sitting out this Nations League campaign by agreement with the coach, while Jérémy Doku was left out with an injury. Leandro Trossard, who has a heel problem, and goalkeeper Mike Penders, who has a muscle issue, were also reported unavailable earlier in the window. Additionally, Diego Moreira has accumulated two yellow cards in the first two UEFA Nations League fixtures and will also miss out.

Turkey’s start has been difficult. Vincenzo Montella’s side lost 1-0 to France before suffering a heavier 4-1 defeat to Italy. They have scored only once and conceded five in two matches, leaving little margin for error against Belgium. Turkey showed urgency against France, particularly after half-time, but Italy punished defensive lapses and exposed the need for greater balance.

Hakan Çalhanoğlu and Kenan Yıldız were both missing from the squad through injury, depriving Turkey of two important options in midfield and attack. Arda Güler, Barış Alper Yılmaz and Kerem Aktürkoğlu offer creativity and pace, but the visitors will need a more disciplined defensive performance to contain Belgium.