Belgium adopted a 3-4-2-1 formation, enabling their wing-backs to exploit space on the flanks, with Meunier's early goal epitomizing this strategy. Lukaku operated as a lone striker supported by Hazard and De Bruyne, who frequently interchanged positions to confuse England's defense. England, setup in a 3-5-2 formation, struggled to create clear chances, with Kane isolated and heavily marked. Belgium's midfield dominance, particularly by Witsel and De Bruyne, stifled England's build-up play, making it difficult for them to transition quickly into attack. The effectiveness of Belgium's pressing scheme forced England into errors, leading to goal-scoring opportunities, cementing their historic third-place finish.