Everyone is expecting a real spectacle at the Kazan Arena, but can Brazil and Belgium deliver what the fans are demanding from them? Sure they can, these teams have been sensational in the attack, so we can expect a really entertaining duel on Friday evening. But, who’s gonna advance to the semifinal of the World Cup 2018? Maybe this match preview will help you find the answer.
Brazil
The number 1 favorites for winning the World Cup for the 6th time are facing a real challenge – Brail are taking on one of the best teams in Europe. But, if Brazil want to be the champions, they need to leave everyone behind. So far, they’ve been doing exactly that. Truth be told, their performances haven’t been on the level their fans were expecting, but no one can say Brazil are underachieving.
Actually, it seems that they’re sticking to Tite’s plan – win the game without showing off too much. Perhaps they want to stay modest in order not to get carried away. Scoring 1-2 goals per game and keeping the ball in their possession has been their style on this tournament. And maybe that’s smart, as their players won’t get too tired or risk getting injured.
When it comes to talent, Brazil are a real dream-team. They have at least one amazing player in all positions, although their attack is much, much better than their defense. Speaking of their back line, they do have some problems with injuries.
Dani Alves got injured before the tournament even started so Fagner had to take his place. And recently, Marcelo also had fitness problems. Furthermore, we’re not going to see the strong defensive-midfielder Casemiro as he’s gonna miss the game due to yellow cards. That said, it won’t be a big surprise if Belgium manage to snatch a few goals in this game.
Belgium
Similarly to Brazil, this team is also made of big stars. A team that has Hazard, De Bruyne, Lukaku, Mertens, and others in the squad definitely has the right to hope for reaching the semifinals. They’ve been sensational in the attack, scoring 12 goals in four games they played on this tournament.
The last game, however, showed some weak spots of Belgium. Quick counterattacks of Japanese players resulted in two goals in Courtois’ net. The same kind of plan is probably on the minds of Brazilian players, so Belgium defenders will have to be extra careful in this game.
The good news for Belgium is that they’re free of injuries and most of their players seem to be in a really good form at the moment. Their fans are happy to see all of their men playing with high confidence, including the substitutes.
In fact, those who came in from the bench actually saved Belgium from getting knocked out of the tournament by Japan. I’m talking about Fellaini and Chadli, two players who got on the pitch in 65’ and scored both the equalizer and the winning goal.
Possible Lineups
Brazil:
Alisson – Miranda, Silva, Fagner, Filipe Luis – Paulinho, Fernandinho, Coutinho – Willian, Neymar, Jesus
Belgium:
Courtois – Vertonghen, Kompany, Alderweireld – Fellaini, De Bruyne, Meunier, Chadli – Hazard, Mertens, Lukaku
Brazil vs. Belgium Match Prediction
If you’re planning to put some money on this game, stay away from the outcome! Anything can happen here. Instead, a much better alternative is to bet on the number of goals. We’re guaranteed to see a lot of them, probably on both ends.
Brazil vs. Belgium Betting Tips
- Over 2.5 Goals @1.80 (bet365)
- BTS @2.00 (bwin)