The action of group “G” continues and in this occasion, we will analyze the forecast Belgium vs Tunisia. The Belgian side leaves as a favorite due to the collective and offensive potential that it has, which allowed it to beat Panama 3-0 and make a good start in the World Cup. For this reason and even if the Africans are tactical and combative between the lines, we believe that the boys of Roberto Martínez have what it takes to win the match even if it’s one goal difference. He paints to be a closed duel in the first half, being able to be more open in the second 45 minutes of game (script similar to the one seen against the Central Americans).
Belgium:
The Belgians got off to a good start on their World Cup run after defeating Panama 3-0 in a match with two well-marked halves. In the first half, the Europeans did not play well despite generating some chances of goal. Then they were released after the goal by Mertens, which fell in the first minutes of the complementary stage. Then there were goals from Lukaku, who showed all his power and quality in front of the goal. Now it is expected that the team is more productive in the first half and that it does not regulate so much in certain passages of the match. Quality has and enough to specify two goals as a minimum and several corners in favor (9 obtained before those directed by “Bolillo” Gómez, of which 7 obtained in the initial stage).
If we try to visualize what this game will be, we believe that the Europeans will handle the ball and advance their lines from the initial whistle. Of course, they may be more aggressive, trying not to lateralize as much or play too much with their 3 backs. The ideal is that Hazard and Mertens appear more and not be so individualistic. In the midfield, Witsel and De Bruyne must be finer with the passes so that the preparation is more fluid and without so much touch in between. The bands will also be important, being vital the contribution of Ferreira Carrasco and Meunier. In summary, the 3-4-2-1 system imposed by coach Martinez is already entrenched in the squad, which allows him to be very offensive and at the same time balanced when defending.
Tunisia:
The Africans’ global start was negative from the result they got, after losing 2-1 over the hour against England. However, his performance was acceptable from the tactical point of view, since he neutralized his rival during several passages of the match. He did not have much weight in attack, but could handle the ball judiciously despite the greater hierarchy of his rival. For this match it is expected that coach Maaloul make a similar approach to what was done before the British, being its main objective to annul the society consisting of De Bruyne, Hazard and Mertens (cracks of great management that feed Lukaku facing the goal).
Continuing with the analysis, you should know that Tunisians are characterized by being correct with the ball, but somewhat clumsy at the time of elaboration. They want to go out too much, having to keep possession for more than 5 or 10 seconds in total. Surely he will retreat his lines, trying to reach the goal with some isolated play, either a corner or a punctual free throw. The main problem for the Africans is if they receive an early goal, as the Belgians are too dynamic in their actions. Therefore, it is not ruled out that the first half ends 2-0 and with several corner shots in favor of the Europeans.
The last time they played both selected was in an international friendly preparation towards the last World Cup. The game was played in June 2014 and the winner was Belgium by a tight 1-0 that got the minute 89 ‘game.
PREDICTION: Over 2.5 goals @ 1.80
