World Cup 2018: 3 reasons why Belgium will defeat France in the semi-final

#2 Tactician Martinez and Thierry Henry's knowledge of the French team

The Belgian gaffers celebrate victory

Martinez is a top contestant for the manager of the year award. He has rotated his squad cleverly and his perfectly timed substitutions have made a massive impact for Belgium throughout the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

When Belgium was trailing 0-2 against Japan, Martinez kept his cool and brought on Chadli and Fellaini. They repaid his faith and scored a goal each to help Belgium complete a 3-2 comeback in the thrilling Round of 16 match.

In the decisive quarter-final match against Brazil, Martinez cleverly changed his formation to 5-3-2 and brought in Chadli to the starting XI to provide cover for Vertonghen against Willian's terrific pace and also brought in Fellaini to add muscle in the midfield and give more freedom to De Bruyne to venture forward.

His strategy and changes in the starting XI inspired Belgium to beat the 5 time World Champions Brazil 2-1.

Martinez, who also has French legend Thierry Henry as his assistant will look to counter France's midfield strength by again playing Fellaini.

Being a legendary player for France and having played with Deschamps, Henry will know the French style of play and also the tactics of his former teammate Deschamps. Henry's valuable experience will come in handy for Belgium against France in the semi-finals.