FIFA World Cup
World Cup 2018: France vs Belgium Preview
Just days away from the culmination of this year’s World Cup, France and Belgium meet in an anticipated finals match. Nevertheless, the neighbors will fight it off to obtain a ticket in the finals against the winner of England and Croatia.
Belgium enters with the dubbed name of “golden generation”, and so far they have been marvelous. However, in front of them they will have a French team with an entire arsenal of young guns looking to in-script their name in World Cup history.
Background
The neighboring nations have an opportunity at history. However, the Red Devils have never finished better than fourth place, this from their first and only trip to the semifinals in 1986. On the other hand, France is looking to make a third finals appearance in the last six World Cups. The last being so close against Italy that saw the Gallo team be left without their emblem captain Zinedine Zidane for headbutting Marco Materazzi.
Belgium comes from stunning Brazil while also leaving behind Japan who fought to the very end. France, however, beat out neighboring nations Argentina and Uruguay respectively.
France also comes with youngster Kylian Mbappe who became the first teenager to score twice in a World Cup since Pele in 1958.
During this tournament France has scored nine goals and given up three. Belgium has scored 14 and has surrendered 5 goals.
Belgium boss Roberto Martinez brought along with him the help of France star Thierry Henry who will be facing his nation for the first time ever.
Nevertheless, Belgium’s attack with Romelu Lukaku, Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne have been the backbone of the team. However, France’s defense with Raphael Varene and Samuel Umtiti have been phenomenal. Not to say the least about N’Golo Kante who has been tireless at recuperating balls in the middle.
Starting Lineups
France: Hugo Lloris; Lucas Hernandez, Samuel Umtiti, Raphael Varane, Benjamin Pavard; Ngolo Kante, Paul Pogba; Blaise Matuidi, Antoine Griezmann, Kylian Mbappe; Olivier Giroud.
Belgium: Thibaut Courtois; Jan Vertonghen, Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen, Toby Alderweireld; Yannick Carrasco, Axel Witsel, Kevin De Bruyne, Nacer Chadli; Eden Hazard, Romelu Lukaku.
Prediction
This is one of the most difficult predictions to make. However, Belgium will come on top after putting a great performance against England in their group stage.
France 2 – 4 Belgium
