BELGIUM v JAPAN
Live on BBC 1. Monday July 2, kick-off 7pm
The Golden Generation of Belgium's young starlets looks to have sound foundations for a World Cup claim this time round and I can't see Japan standing in their way.
I wouldn't put too much thought into their 2-1 win over Colombia having played against 10 men for practically the full 90 minutes and although they have some quality in the likes of Osaka and Kagawa they just can't hold a candle up too the sheer strength and depth of a Belgium side that have genuine ability all over the park.
My only slight reservation is four of Belgium's possible starting XI are a yellow away from a suspension and that means De Bruyne in particular could have his usual workrate and tempo stifled a touch but I doubt it!
Just can't see beyond a comfortable passage through to the QFs for Belgium with Lukaku causing absolute havoc for the Japanese defence not used to dealing with such a presence.
Super Single
- Belgium over 2.5 team goals (7-4, Coral)
First Scorer
- Romelu Lukaku (14-5, Ladbrokes)
Bonkers Bet
- Belgium leading after 15 minutes (15-4, Coral)
Bet Builder
- Belgium
- Lukaku to score 2+
- Belgium to score 2+
- Belgium win by 2+
(5-1, bet365)
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Born and bred in Bury but now exiled to Hull: long-suffering Shakers supporter and member of Mr. Fixit's site since 2013. Football mad with a depth and breadth of knowledge including specific focus on South American football, the Icelandic Leagues and English Lower League football.
