Belgium’s World Cup 2022 campaign is teetering on the brink of disaster as they prepare for a third and final game against Croatia. With Morocco favourites to beat Canada in the other Group F game, the Red Devils will likely need all three points to progress to the knockout stages.
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World Cup 2022: Croatia vs Belgium Preview and Odds
Everything is still to play for in World Cup 2022 Group F, but Belgium have come under huge criticism for their performances thus far. Despite winning their opening game 1-0, Canada were the more dangerous side throughout and deserved something from the match. Roberto Martinez’s side followed that up with another lacklustre performance as they were beaten 2-0 by Morocco.
Arguably their toughest test is yet to come, and it’s a game they simply must win. World Cup 2018 runners-up Croatia stand in the way of a place in the next round, and they will be brimming with confidence after a 4-1 drubbing of Canada.
It appears some cracks may have appeared in the squad after star man Kevin De Bruyne suggested his nation are too old to win World Cup 2022. He then produced an uninspired performance as his side fell to defeat in a crucial outing.
The ‘Golden Generation’ will need to pull together if they are to have one last chance at claiming a major tournament trophy. Unfortunately for Belgium, Croatia are safe in the knowledge that a point is enough to see them through. This could encourage them to sit incredibly deep and play for a draw. Given we have already seen the Red Devils struggle to create chances, this could spell danger.
Belgium are very slight favourites at 2.59 despite underperforming at World Cup 2022. Croatia are 2.78 underdogs to emerge victorious, with a draw at 3.34. The positive injury news regarding Romelu Lukaku has provided a boost ahead of the pivotal game, with the Inter Milan striker currently leading the odds (5.90) to open the scoring.
World Cup 2022: Key Players
The key man for Belgium has to be Lukaku – they have lacked a focal point without him. His physicality could be vital against a strong Croatia backline, with his presence in the 18-yard box sure to provide a target for Belgium’s playmakers and wingers to aim at.
For Croatia, it’s Ivan Perisic. A constant threat on the left wing, the Tottenham man provided two assists for Andrej Kramaric against Canada. Dangerous on both feet and a goal threat at the back post, Belgium will have to keep a keen eye on him.
World Cup 2022: Croatia vs Belgium Betting Tips
Draw – 3.34
Although Croatia will want to top the group, they will be more concerned with ensuring they qualify. We expect them to sit deep and soak up the pressure as they attempt to frustrate a misfiring Belgium side. Based on what we’ve seen from Martinez’s team so far, we’re not confident in their chances of picking up all three points.
Under 1.5 goals – 3.30
A goal could be enough to seal the points, with a goalless draw also on the cards. Belgium have lacked penetration and Croatia have looked solid at the back. The defences will likely come out on top in this one.
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