Euro 2016: It’s Belgium attack vs Italy’s defence

Italy players warm up at a training session at Montpellier on Sunday, the eve of their Euro Group E match against Belgium. (Photo: AP )

It will be Belgium’s star-studded attack against Italy’s dogged defence and Marouane Fellaini says his team have the weapons to make a winning start to Euro 2016 on Monday.

Marc Wilmots’ Belgium have shot up the world rankings from 66th in 2009 to second coming into the European Championship finals and are amongst the favourites in France.

Now Manchester United’s Fellaini wants Premier League stars Kevin de Bruyne, Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku to showcase their talent against the Azzurri in Lyon in Group E.

“We have a lot top quality players up front, who can make the difference, we have three world-class forwards,” said midfielder Fellaini. Belgium netted 24 goals in qualfying.

“I hope they are ready to score goals and make a difference.

“It’s always important to start with a win, especially for our confidence.”

Irish seek to stop Zlatan in opener In Paris, Republic of Ireland must somehow silence superstar Zlatan Ibrahimovic when they open their campaign against Sweden at the Stade de France.

In a Group E match, a defeat for either side could be a decisive blow to their prospects of reaching the last 16.