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Players in training ahead of the World Cup, which begins in just under two weeks' time
Belgium have a decent record in the FIFA World Cups and Euros. They finished at 3rd spot in Euro 1972, were runners-up at Euro 1980 and finished 4th at 1986 FIFA World Cup.They have beaten the then defending champions France in the 2002 World Cup.
What the current Belgium squad has going for it is this perfect blend of youth and experience. They also have a bunch of players who are in the primes of their careers. Also, they possess the added advantage of a top manager in Roberto Martinez who has shown in the past that he is no flash in the pan. In the 2014 World Cup, Belgium were defeated by Argentina in the Quarter-finals by a margin of 1-0. At their best, they are well capable of defeating the powerhouses of football. Or giving them a good run for their money, at the very least!
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Writing off Belgium will be a huge mistake for any country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Hence, they are the dark horses, who are capable of knocking out any potential heavyweight in the World Cup. If anything, an argument could be made that it's high time Belgium is considered one of the true heavyweights of the international football scene. If they emerge victorious at these WC finals, it would surely silence several doubters, while also etching their name into the annals of football history.
Let us look at the 5 players who could help Belgium in upsetting the big teams.
#5 Jan Vertonghen
Training session of the Belgian Red Devils - 30/05/2018
Vertonghen is deployed mostly as central defender in Belgium's line-up. Being tall and physically strong, the Spurs man can be an intimidating player for opposing strikers. He is good in the air and hence can be a threat to the opposition in their penalty box as well.
With Toby Alderweireld , he has formed one of the best defensive partnerships in the world. Being hard-working in nature, his defensive work-rate will be tested in this World Cup. Vertonghen's experience will be useful in marshalling the defence of Belgium.
His leadership abilities will be influential in determining Belgium's success in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
#4 Dries Mertens
Mertens is frequently deployed in the left wing for Belgium. He has an eye for goal, has got good pace and is good at linking-up with his fellow teammates.
Being a dead-ball specialist for Belgium, he also has got the ability to deliver the perfect ball into the box for the attackers to score from. His raw pace enables him to rip apart the opposition's defence.
He has had a successful season with Napoli, scoring his 50th goal for them this season. Having represented Belgium in 67 matches and scored 13 goals for them, the Napolitano will be a key player for them in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. His pace and form will be crucial for Belgium's success in Russia.
#3 Kevin De Bruyne
Training Belgium
De Bruyne is deployed mostly as an attacking midfielder in Belgium's line-up. He is a talented midfielder, blessed with fantastic vision and great passing abilities. Having developed into a great player at Manchester City, he played an influential part in their Premier League tittle victory.
Along with being an excellent crosser, he is also a dead-ball specialist for Belgium. Belgium will look up to De Bruyne for providing the perfect pass to open up the opposition's defence. He will play as the fulcrum of Belgium's midfield and will have to provide the crosses for Belgium's attackers to score from.
De Bruyne's performances will play a key role in defining Belgium's chances in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
#2 Romelu Lukaku
Belgium Training & Press Conference
The Red Devil (twice over) normally plays as a central striker for Belgium. Possessing an imposing stature and being physically strong and good at heading the ball, he is their target man due to his capability to shield the ball from the opponents.
Having played decently in this season for Manchester United, Belgium will be hopeful that Lukaku will demonstrate the same form for them too at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Lukaku's main responsibility in the World Cup will be to capitalise on the goal-scoring opportunities provided by Hazard and De Bruyne.
Lukaku's form will be crucial for Belgium in order to reach the quarter-finals.
#1 Eden Hazard
FBL-WC-2018-RUS-BEL-TRAINING
Eden Hazard is at present, without a shadow of a doubt, one of the best players in the world. His pace, superb dribbling abilities and his long-range shooting abilities make him a phenomenal player. A fit and in-form Eden Hazard is a very dangerous player for any opposition to face.
Having being deployed on the left wing for Belgium throughout his career, his link-up play with De Bruyne will be a treat for any football fan in the World Cup. Being the X-factor for Belgium in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, it will be expected from Hazard to deliver his best performance in each and every game.
His form will ensure Belgium will be capable of defeating the top contenders in this year's World Cup.
Any other names you'd include from this star-studded Belgium squad? Let us know by having your say. Drop a comment below.
