The Red Devils' trial was disappointing in Ireland and they were still happy with a draw

Not a match to get excited about. The Red Devils disappointed in Ireland with an experimental squad. At no time were the Belgians able to cause any problems to the home team. Matz Szils even had to save a penalty kick to avoid defeat. So why don't we show something against England on Tuesday, with strong players?

National coach Tedesco took the opportunity to experiment with his team. why not? Deman and new signing De Winter stood in an unprecedentedly young defense and allowed Vermeeren to gain rhythm in midfield.

The Irish, searching for a national coach and in a transition period, started strong and immediately created a chance after Weiss lost possession. However, Ogbeni shot into the side netting, when he should always have played Coleman's free ball in front of goal.

After that early warning, the Red Devils increased their demands for the ball, but this did not pose any danger. There wasn't very much depth to it and the interaction was never smooth enough. Tielemans headed wide of the goal and Bakayoko fired the ball over the crossbar, and that was before the end of the first half.

Then the physically impressive Ireland were even more threatening. On the half hour the ball hit the penalty spot after questionable hand play by Vermeeren. However, Ferguson left the matter alone, with Sells saving the poor penalty. Then there were still chances for Ogbeni and Smodekes, who were unable to punish poor defending from Demane and Castagne.

It was clear that things had to be different after the break. Tedesco threw Batshuayi, Meunier and Duco into the fight and that seemed to help. But not before Ferguson headed a stunning cross over the bar immediately after kick-off.

After a few minutes we finally managed to score the first Belgian ball past the posts. Bakayoko returned to the pale Opinda who was unable to send his breakaway shot past Kelleher. However, what seemed like a harbinger of a demon attack, turned out to be just a short-lived outbreak.

Strangely enough, when Onana replaced De Winter at the heart of defence, he lost the organization for a while. However, Smallbone did not dare to strike and Szmodics was banned. This was the best chance of the second half for the humble Irishmen who fought to get what they deserved.

One for the Belgians is yet to come. Substitute Lukebakio ran from the right flank and passed the ball to Meunier at the right moment. He was unable to celebrate his return to the national team with a goal, because Kelleher took advantage of the ball in his place from the corner.

A particularly disappointing international match ended 0-0. The Red Devils' first match in the run-up to Euro 2024 did not reassure doubters at all. Belgium, which may have a stronger and more experienced team, will have to play a different role against England on Tuesday.