Belgium has arguably one of the most talented squads at this summer’s world cup. But no one has mentioned them as potential winners. Can Eden Hazard and co prove their doubters wrong?
How they reached Russia:
Eyebrows were raised when former Everton manager Roberto Martinez took over from Marc Wilmots in the wake of Belgium’s disappointing Euro 2016 campaign. But the Spaniard silenced the doubters by guiding the Red Devils to the finals in impressive fashion.
Belgium’s World Cup place was never in doubt as they wracked up nine wins from their 10 qualifying games in a group featuring Greece, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Estonia, Cyprus and Gibraltar. The only blot on an otherwise spotless record was a 1-1 draw with the second-placed Greeks in Brussels.
Even against relatively weak opposition, 43 goals in 10 games is an extraordinary return. Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku led the way, finding the back of the net 11 times, while Eden Hazard chipped in with six goals and five assists. At the other end, just six goals were conceded, with six clean sheets. In this form, it is little wonder Belgium are among the favourites to lift the trophy.
One to watch:
Captain Eden Hazard is one of the leading lights of this golden generation of Belgian players. The Chelsea winger had a modest dometic campaign by his own standards and will be desperate to shine for his country on the grandest stage. At his best, Hazard is close to unstoppable, embarrassing defenders with his pace and trickery and scoring and creating goals for his team.
GROUP G PROFILES
*England
* Panama
* Tunisia