World Cup
Belgium vs Canada prediction
23 NOV @ 19:00
Canada will be competing in only their second-ever FIFA World Cup, following in their debut in 1986 where they failed to score a single goal in their three group stage matches.
Englishman John Herdman takes charge of what is easily the greatest squad of players the country has ever had – Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies, Club Brugge goalscorer Cyle Larin, FC Porto’s Stephen Eustaquio, and the experience of Junior Hoilett and Atiba Hutchinson.
Unfortunately, I don’t see them matching up well to their group opponents Belgium, Croatia and Morocco.
Les Rouges have been handed a tough opener in Belgium. Roberto Martinez remains in charge of the European side’s golden generation in what is considered to be the final chance to lift an international trophy for many of them. Jan Vertonghen (35), Dries Mertens (35), Axel Witsel (33) and Toby Alderweireld (33) have been great servants over the years, and whilst Eden Hazard is still only 31 in comparison, he’s been hindered by injuries since moving to Real Madrid three years ago.
Although the Red Devils don’t head into the World Cup in the best of form, I find it disrespectful that their odds are as long as 1/2 for their opener. Or should I say, I will be grateful to print money on Wednesday.
Romelu Lukaku isn’t expected to start the opener because of injury, but Michy Batshuayi has 26 goals in 48 internationals to replace him. And the former Chelsea man will have supply from the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, the Hazard brothers, Mertens and Youri Tielemans in midfield, whilst Thomas Meunier loves getting forward from right-back.
Whilst not being a fan of Martinez, he has guided Belgium to the semi-finals of both the last World Cup and Euro 2020. I think Belgium will be there or thereabouts again this year without being one of the favourites to lift the trophy. First job is to win their opener and I don’t see them having any problems in doing that.
Dead cert: Belgium to win is 1/2 at BetFred