Belgium vs Senegal : Too Close To Call
The outcome of the Belgium vs Senegal encounter in the Round of 32 at the Seattle Stadium is difficult to predict.
Belgium Blooming Late
Belgium, with two unimpressive draws against Egypt and Iran, finally did find a bit of momentum with a telling 5-1 win over New Zealand, which helped them top Group G.
Senegal Too Are Finding Their Mojo
Senegal, the Teranga Lions and one of the finest teams from Africa, had a very rocky start with losses to France and Norway in the initial two matches. But a resounding 5-0 win over Iraq helped Senegal sneak into the Round of 32 at the expense of Iran.
The Teranga Lions Are A Dangerous Side
The Teranga Lions are a dangerous side with a wealth of talent and incredible skill in their armoury. Sadio Mane, the legend, will be the guiding force on the pitch. However, the team has some serious strikers gifted with great power and agility in Ismaila Sarr and Pape Gueye, who have done the bulk of the scoring for the Africans. Nicolas Jackson is not far behind either. The goals scored by Senegal in the Group Stage, particularly against Iraq, were from the top draw.
But The Defence Is A Problem
The defence has been a problem for Senegal. The back line has been badly exposed by France and Norway. Koulibaly, the big centre-back, has to do better if Senegal are to strive hard for a positive result.
The Red Devils Are Blessed With Some Serious Talent
The Red Devils are blessed with some great talent of their own. Trossard and Kevin de Bruyne can be supreme in the midfield, and with Jeremy Doku ( back in the squad after the birth of his child) will be a massive threat on the left flank. Lukaku, probably playing his last World Cup, will always be lurking around the Senegal box.
It Is A Knockout
Belgium are a good 10 places or so ahead of Senegal in the FIFA rankings. But in knockouts, the rankings hardly matter.
The Last Throw of the Dice
For Belgium’s golden generation of Courtois, De Bruyne and Lukaku, this could well be the last throw of the dice.
Senegal Have The Edge
Senegal, with their speed and physicality, may just have the edge over the Red Devils. A tight match it is going to be, virtually impossible to predict.
The Match starts on Thursday, July 2, 1.30 am IST.
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