So far Belgium’s trip to Russia has been a marked success. The Red Devils dominated group G with a perfect record. They have shown overpowering offensive ability. They have had better defense than expected. But now the rubber meets the road. Brazil is likely the best team in the tournament. And the bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup favorite. Canarinho has the firepower of the Red Devils. And at least as much defensively. Belgium’s roster is touted as generational. Their match with Brazil is what makes the World Cup so great.
2018 FIFA World Cup Brazil vs. Belgium
Date and Time: Friday, July 6, 2018, 2 p.m. ET
Location: Kazan Arena, Kazan
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Belgium | +½ (-125) | 2½ (EV) |  |
| Brazil | -½ (+110) | 2½ (-115) | |
| |||
Brazil vs. Belgium TV Coverage: FS1
Golden Age for Belgium
Belgium is in what’s called their “Golden Age.” They have never been this good. But they lack Brazil’s history. Their best finish was fourth place in 1986. Brazil is a five time World Cup champion. And a perennial Bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup chalk. The Red Devils certainly have star power. More than at any other time in this history.
Kevin De Bruyne
Kevin De Bruyne is among the top midfielders in the game. He is a brilliant playmaker. And among the most complete players in the world. Romelu Lukaku is a dangerous scorer. He has four goals so far in the tournament. Eden Hazard has added two with the potential for more. Hazard has also added two assists.
Belgium is prevailing
One sports betting concern entering the tournament was tactics. Manager Roberto Martinez has come under fire more than once. And often from his own players. De Bruyne lit into the tactics after a friendly 3-3 draw against Mexico. Perhaps his rant had a positive effect. Belgium has not shown tactical weakness in Russia. The Red Devils scored nine goals in three Group G matches. They had a tougher than expected knockout match against Japan. Belgium prevailed 3-2. They showed tremendous character in rallying from a 2-0 deficit. Substitute Nacer Chadli scored the winner at game’s end.
Brazil so Far
Brazil was not as dominant in Group E. They won it with two wins and a draw. But were sluggish in the process. However, In the round of 16 they showed their true ability. Canarinho defeated the upstart Mexicans 2-0. And played a complete game in the process. Brazil has gotten help from plenty of sources in this tournament. Phillippe Coutinho and Neymar have two goals each. Neymar has the ability to dominate. He possesses the talent to be the greatest in the game. But he can also be distracted. Occasional mental lapses are a source of frustration.
Tite
But the most important man on Brazil does not take the pitch. Tite took over as manager when the team was in crisis. And in peril of not qualifying for Russia. It was like flipping a switch. Canarinho has disappointed in recent World Cups. Horrible management was the primary culprit. Tite has solved that problem. And made Brazil a world power yet again.
Matchup to Watch
Belgium has had the more impressive tournament. They showed the heart of a champion in the comeback win over Japan. The Red Devils scoring depth is the Bet on 2018 FIFA World Cup matchup difference.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Belgium to get the biggest win of their history!
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Belgium
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Belgium 2, Brazil 1