Match #4: Belgium vs Russia

 


AK:

After fairytale World Cup 18, both Belgium and Russia would look to continue their good forms in a major tournament again. But unlikely to have similar outcomes. Russia squad has evolved in last 3 years. Not so long ago they were fielding a back 3 with combined age of 108. Some young players are in the squad now. With in form Golovin, the towering Dzyuba and couple of decent options from the bench in Cherychev and Miranchuk, they have some relatively known operators as well, but their form has been inconsistent. Not expecting much from them in this tournament. Belgium on the other hand look outstanding on paper and the challenge for them is to get to the next level now. An aging backline can be a worry as the tournament progresses but they should have enough to hammer Russia. Expecting a 3-0 or more. Lukaku, De Bruyne are some usual suspects to get onto the scoresheet. Would be curious to see how Martinez uses the younger Hazard and mercurial Mertens.  

AB:

Expecting a solid 2-0 win for Belgium. Belgium are one of the favourites for the Euros and I expect them to stamp their authority on the game and the group with a solid win. Russia will try and keep it tight, and in Golovin and Dzyuba have the players who can hurt Belgium if they have an off day. However the Belgium midfield and forward line should be in complete control. Expecting Tielemans to continue to build his brand as a top operator in the Center of the park after a fantastic season with Leicester City, and Hazard to regain some form and impose himself on the international stage. Kevin De Bruyne to begin his path to the Golden Ball for Euro 2021 (and Ballon D’Or beckons??). Also the first major tournament for Russia without Akinfeev (all FM fans, yes he’s finally retired)

ADG:
2-1 to the Belgians. Lukaku to score. But a pairing of Vertonghen and Alderweireld do not a stingy defence make anymore and hence they will concede. Golovin maybe for the Big Bear.


dark7knight:
Expecting goals galore! 3-2 to the Belgians. This is the last opportunity for the so called Golden generation of Belgium to win a trophy. But it's an ageing defence and likely to leak goals and big man Dyzuba is gonna be a handful, yet even without the injured KDB & off form Hazard, still expect the younger guns of Belgium to step up and win it, especially if Thorgan Hazard & Carrasco are deployed as Wing backs/Wide midfielders. The older hazard may get to play due to De BRuynes absence; but the middle of the park may actually be their strongest points with Dendonker & Tielemans probably manning the field with Witsel also a doubt.. and finally where Castagne plays may also be a decisive factor in the backline, but Lukaku & co to score goals & win it by a small.margin

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