Brazil vs Belgium - World Cup 2018 Preview and Odds

Published on: 06/07/2018

Brazil vs Belgium - World Cup 2018 Preview and Odds

July 06, 2018 17:00pm - Kazan Arena

World Cup Russia 2018 - Quarter-final

The standout tie of the quarter-finals will get underway in Kazan on Friday night as favourites Brazil take on a Belgium side with a 100% record in this summer`s tournament.

Two of the strongest teams left in the event will do battle raising the prospect of a thrilling quarter-final with France or Uruguay lying in wait the victors. This game will provide a real test of the abilities of both teams after both enjoyed fairly comfortable passages to this stage.

Brazil have had the smoother ride despite an unconvincing 1-1 opener against Switzerland. Since then, they have strolled to three consecutive 2-0 victories and have maintained their status as tournament favourites. While much of the focus has been on their attacking talent, it is their defence who have really excelled. However, Belgium will offer a new level of attacking threat.

Meanwhile, Belgium will hope to maintain momentum after a stunning comeback against Japan. Roberto Martinez`s men were stunned by two goals in four minutes early in the second half before drawing level thanks to goals from Vertonghen and Feillani. Just as the game seemed to be heading for extra time, substitute Nacer Chadli slotted home in the final minute of injury time to break Japanese hearts.

It was a close call for Belgium, but overall they were the more creative and inventive side in that game. The fighting spirit they showed bodes well for what will be a tough match against Brazil. They remain the tournament`s top scorers with an average of three goals per game.

Brazil predicted starting XI:

Alisson, Fagner, Silva, Miranda, Marcelo, Fernandinho, Paulinho, Coutinho, Willian, Neymar, Jesus

Belgium predicted starting XI:

Courtois, Vertonghen, Kompany, Alderweireld, Chadli, Witsel, Dembele, Meunier, De Bruyne, Hazard, Lukaku

Recent Form (All comps)

Brazil: WWWDW

Belgium: WWWWW

Betting odds and tips

Brazil have been tight at the back, but their steadfast defence is likely to be breached by the tournament`s leading scorers. Expect both sides to mark the scoresheet in 90 minutes with Over 2.5 Goals in the game.

You can back Both Teams to Score at 4/5 and Over 2.5 Goals at Evens.

By Neil Morris