Verdict: Belgium win and over 2,5 goals – yes
Best Odds: 6/5
Bookmaker: 888sport
This match is one of those Round of 16 clashes that are not getting too much attention. And that seams somewhat reasonable, having in mind one team is expected to go far in the tournament and therefore easily get past this hurdle. Belgium are a star studded team who will want to reach the quarterfinal without much trouble, while Japan are there to prove a tough nut to crack. They already made a big result by getting out of the group, but that will not satisfy them just yet. The game will kick-off this Monday at 19:00 hrs, BST.
Belgium
Belgium came into this tournament eager to reach at least the last four. The semifinal would seem like a decent upgrade on the quarterfinals of the last World Cup and Euros and so far they started well. The 3-0 win against Panama was expected, while the 5-2 beating of Tunisia brought some very nice attacking display. Romelu Lukaku scored four goals, a brace in each of the matches, and he also did it with just four shots on target. Eden Hazard seemed to be enjoying himself, while Dries Mertens proved why he is so important for Napoli. Against England, it was a different story, as both sides decided to rest their best players. Lukaku was injured, too, so Belgium did not try too hard, but in the end they did beat the Three Lions. Now, the time is to brush aside this Japan team.
Team News
Roberto Martinez will have all of his 23 players at disposal, as Romelu Lukaku will be fit for this match after some injury issues.
Japan
Japan were in a far more interesting and far more balanced group than Belgium. They started the tournament well enough to beat 10-man Colombia, who get their player sent off just three minutes into the match. Despite that, Japan were far from thrilling, but still managed to grind out a 2-1 win after their opponents got tired. Against Senegal, it was much more hectic. The African side had a lead on two occasions but never really managed to keep it that way and Japan sneaked to earn a 2-2 draw, which would prove decisive. In the last match, Japan lost 1-0 to an already eliminated Poland, while Senegal lost 1-0 to Colombia. That meant South Americans were going top and Japan and Senegal were tied in almost everything – they both had four points and a goal difference of 4-4. Then the fair-play table was used and Japan progressed as a team with less yellow cards than Senegal. Their path to a matchup to Belgium was lucky and they look like a side that will need the luck if they want to reach quarterfinals.
Team News
Japan are reportedly in full strength for this match.
Conclusion
Belgium are clear favourites in this match. Their squad filled with top Premier League players should have enough about them to beat Japan. However, it would be far from a surprise if Belgium get their attacking play together against a well-organized but slower side and score several goals. I expect a nice and big win for the Devils.
Verdict: Belgium win and over 2,5 goals – yes
Best Odds: 6/5
Bookmaker: 888sport
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