Although Belgium never won a World Cup 2018 was considered their best chance. Accordingly, they were a top tier World Cup betting odds favorite. Indeed, in Group play the Red Devils were devastating. Nine goals in three wins epitomized their skill set. But their 2-1 quarterfinal win over Brazil was the ultimate statement. In short it was the ultimate in gambling street cred. Many punters considered Brazil the cream of the crop. Likewise, they were the top favorite in the entire tournament. So although Belgium won’t win the tournament credibility was earned. Yet a third-place match is a letdown.
2018 FIFA World Cup England vs. Belgium
Date and Time: Saturday, July 14, 2018, 10 a.m. ET
Location: Krestovsky Stadium, Saint Petersburg
World Cup Betting Online Odds at SBG:
| Team | Spread | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| England | +½ (-137) | 3 (+104) |  |
| Belgium | -½ (+122) | 3 (-119) | |
| |||
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: FOX
Fatal Semifinal for Belgium
Owing to Belgium’s disappointment are the incredible 2018 expectations. No squad in their history was considered as deep and skilled. Due to that the Red Devils were popular World Cup betting odds chalks. However, their semifinal with France proved fatal. Les Bleus were equally capable. Despite their inexperience they played with poise. In addition, the Red Devils simply couldn’t finish. Despite a strong effort Belgium lost 1-0. The outcome is considered a potential end of an era.
Golden Age
Belgium considers this to be their “Golden Age.” And with that was the belief that 2018 was a now or never scenario. Granted, they will still be a talented group in 2022. Balanced against that is many other teams will be improved as well. On the whole this was the Red Devils ultimate shot. Yet they were unable to close the deal. For stars such as Kevin De Bruyne it is a crushing setback. Manager Roberto Martinez faces an uncertain future. In conclusion Belgium was very good. Just not great.
Mastermind Southgate
For England the World Cup proved to be a sportsbook surprise. As a matter of fact, the Three Lions were not a top shelf choice. Commencing with that was a remade young roster. Manager Gareth Southgate was the mastermind of their effort. In fact, he remade a stale lineup. Decidedly younger England boasted superior speed. Southgate’s tactics proved superior. And England made a run for the ages.
Harry Kane
At the onset England’s team speed caught opponents off guard. Harry Kane blasted onto the world stage. To Illustrate Kane has a tournament best six goals. In addition, he posted a hat trick against Panama. Though only 24 years old his maturity is double that. Southgate named Kane team captain. Embracing the role, the young striker thrived. Equally important is that Kane’s teammates made a total buy in. A strong distinction from previous English teams was Southgate’s leadership.
Croatia stopped England
England led Croatia 1-0, 68 minutes into the semifinal. Fans of the Three Lions were berserk. “It is finally coming home,” was their cry. However, the Croats had other ideas. To summarize Croatia won the match 2-1 in extra time. The outcome shattered English hearts.
Matchup to Watch
Belgium will go home without the ultimate prize. Thus, this World Cup Betting Odds match is a letdown. On the other hand, it’s hard to see England getting off the mat. Likewise, their loss to Croatia was devastating.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Veteran Belgium defeated England 1-0 in group play. Accordingly, a repeat is most probable.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Belgium
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Belgium 1, England 0
Catch highlights of Belgium’s win over England!