Backing Belgium at 2.60 means backing the best straight odds on someone winning in the entire group stages. This is the worst Italy ever, and it’s feared that they can only be saved by the fact that Conte is the manager. Conte is a trainer known for getting the best out of his players, and he will need to use his motivational powers here against Belgium.
Belgium are the better of the two sides in footballing terms, although things should still be tight. The Azzuri are renowned for their defensive resolve, as well as being the masters of tactics. Combine these two and Italy should be able to make this hard work for Belgium. The problem for Italy is likely to be in attack, Conte is likely to start with Pellé and Eder up front and neither are likely to trouble a sound Belgian defense too much. Speaking of Belgium’s defense, it is pretty good, they are predominantly recognised now as an attacking unit, but they have a more than capable back line and often like to sit, hitting teams on the counter with their bags of pace. This is a problem for Italy, especially since they appear to lack attacking threat.