By Daily sports on June 12, 2021

Belgium will be without key midfielder Kevin de Bruyne for their opening European Championship Group B game against Russia in St Petersburg.

De Bruyne continues to recover from a fractured eye socket and nose suffered in the Champions League final, while Axel Witsel has an Achilles problem.

Russia were dealt a blow a day before their opener as midfielder Andrei Mostovoy tested positive for Covid-19.

Defender Roman Yevgenyev took his place in the 26-man squad.

Russia striker Artem Dzyuba has 29 international goals and is just two short of becoming the country's all-time leading scorer.

“There are some nerves but of the pleasant kind because this is an important tournament,” he said. “Like any player I would like to score but the team comes first.

“I perfectly remember that the Belgians are very strong, disciplined and organised. I perfectly understand what is expected of me in the game. We have the experience and we have analysed all our matches.” (BBC)

•PHOTO: Kevin De Bruyne

Source Daily sports

Posted June 12, 2021

Chukwu makes case for Iheanacho, other youngsters in...

Rampant Ronaldo nets 4 as Real Madrid crush...

Zambia propose Spain training camp for Eagles World...

Super Eagles Beat Hosts Benin Republic To Qualify...

Hartlepool out of the big league

Mohamed Salah ‘another Lionel Messi in the making’...