U19 team guide: Belgium

By Berend Scholten

Belgium have proved themselves to be a solid, strong defensive side in the run-up to this tournament, and they will be a difficult team to beat. But they will have to play well to progress from Group A, as they face holders Italy, hosts Switzerland and a determined Ukrainian side.

THE COACH:
Marc Van Geersom is a 54-year-old former goalkeeper whose playing career spanned ten years. He played in both the Belgian first and second divisions for several teams, including KSV Waregem and KSC Eendracht Aalst, before moving to the Belgian Football Association fifteen years ago to coach the Under-15 side. After spells in charge of the U16, U17 and U18 sides, he took control of the U19 squad five years ago.

Importance of first match
Van Geersom believes that Belgium's first game against Ukraine is vastly significant. "Our first target must be to finish in the top three of this group, thus ensuring that we qualify for the [FIFA] World [Youth] Championship. I also believe that a win against Ukraine will give us the confidence to go on and do well in this tournament," he said.

PLAYERS TO WATCH:
In defence, Tomas Vermaelen is a good prospect and is already pushing hard for a first-team place at AFC Ajax. The midfield can also boast players who have experience of playing in the Belgian First Division, namely Agyeman Dickson from KFC Germinal Beerschot Antwerpen and Killian Overmeire from KSC Lokeren OV. In attack Faris Haroun of KRC Genk has proved to be an invaluable link with the midfield, while 17-year-old Jonathan Legear of RSC Anderlecht has great pace, and looks an exciting prospect on the right wing.

ROUTE TO THE FINALS:
In the first qualifying round, Belgium had impressive 3-0 victories over both Georgia and Estonia, before securing what might prove to be a psychologically important 3-1 win over holders, and fellow Group A team, Italy. In the second qualifying round, Belgium's solid defensive qualities shone through with 1-0 wins over the Republic of Ireland, Norway and Serbia and Montenegro.

Honours in youth competitions:
International Youth Tournament
Winners 1977
Runners-up 1952