Group 8: Showdown looms in Belgium

Big encounter
With Croatia leading the group by just one point, their visit to Belgium should be the decisive game of the four-team group. Martin Novoselac's side will travel with the hope of killing off their rivals' ambitions of qualifying for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship final play-offs.

Poor results
With both of the top two having dropped points over the last week - Belgium losing 2-1 in Bulgaria while Croatia were held to a goalless draw in Estonia - both coaches will be keen to restore some focus in time for the big showdown.

'A good position'
Novoselac was not too disappointed with his side's point on Tuesday, saying: "We didn't play so bad, but we couldn't score a goal. But other results showed that this is a pretty even group. We are still in first place and we are in a good position."

Belgium second
A good position perhaps, but one that would look precarious should Croatia fail to earn at least a point in Belgium. Belgium are just a point behind them in second place, with Bulgaria third following their first win - and Belgium's first defeat - of the campaign.

Defensive ability
Estonia are bringing up the rear with two points from their games so far and only away games against Bulgaria and Belgium remaining. That draw against Croatia saw them flex their defensive muscle a bit, but Dutch coach Jelle Goes was keen to point out that there was more to his side than solid defending.

'Calm and confident'
"Croatian football has enormous potential, so we have to regard this draw as a success," Goes said. "We spent most of the time in defence, but not all of the time, as has been the case in many previous games. Our very young team is becoming more and more calm and confident."