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

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