BELGIUM'S golden generation are well into their silver years so they kick off Qatar 2022 against Canada in the knowledge this will be their last chance to deliver on unfulfilled potential.
Despite being blessed with some of the world's top talent for pretty much the last decade, the best the Belgians have managed so far has been a semi-final spot at Russia 2018.
It would be a surprise if they topped that in Qatar, with only Kevin De Bruyne operating at the peak of his powers as Roberto Martinez's other big names struggle with either fitness or form.
The draw has been kind to Belgium though and they shouldn't have too much trouble qualifying from a section that also includes Croatia and Morocco. Our man Slips Tips certainly thinks so, backing them to join the Croats in the last 16 while bagging a few goals.
Canada are playing at gracing the greatest show on earth for the first time since 1986 and it will be fascinating to see how John Herdman's side fare in this group.
The Maple Leafs are building towards being co-hosts at the next World Cup so there's not a great deal of pressure on them. But they topped CONCACAF qualifying ahead of Mexico and the USA so they need to be respected and may cause their group rivals a few headaches.
How the bookies view it
It's no great surprise to see Belgium as heavy favourites and they are just 47/100 with Highbet for the win. Canada are as big as 6/1 with Betfair while the draw pays 18/5 with VBet.
Head to head
These nations have never played each other before so history will be made in this encounter. Canada have only played three games at a World Cup finals, losing all of their matches at Mexico 86 without even scoring a goal.
Players to watch
Eden Hazard hasn't been a regular starter for Real Madrid but remains a key man for this country. His creativity will be key to breaking down Canada's defence and McBookie price him at a tempting 9/4 for an assist. If you fancy Hazard for a goal, he's 12/5 at Highbet.
Canada are sweating on the fitness of their main man Alphonso Davies, although the Bayern Munich star is confident he will make it. Jonathan David should lead their attack and the Lille striker is 13/4 at Highbet for anytime scorer.
Anything else catch the eye?
Canada will probably defend deep in a bid to frustrate Martinez's side so I like Belgium -3.5 in the corner handicap, which pays 113/100 at Highbet.
The Belgians will want to stamp their authority on the game early on and nerves might get to their opponents. That makes the 131/100 on offer at Highbet for a goal in the first 20 minutes worth a look.
This World Cup match between Belgium and Canada will be played on Nov 23, 2022 and kick off at 19:00. Check below for our tipsters best Belgium vs Canada prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
