Belgium is looking to cement its spot in the knockout rounds with a win over Tunisia in this match. The Belgians are on top of Group G after a strong performance in their opener against Panama and are looking to put themselves in position to win the group. As for Tunisia, they find themselves in a tough spot. The Carthage Eagles nearly picked up a draw in their opener only to be foiled by an injury time goal. Now, Tunisia likely needs to pick up the full three points if they have any hope of getting to the knockout round.
The most anticipated sporting event in the world comes around once every four years, so don’t miss any of the 2018 World Cup. This match will take place at Otkritie Arena in Moscow at 8 a.m. ET on Saturday, June 23, 2018. Catch every moment of the match live on FOX.
World Cup Group Stage Betting Odds at BookMaker.eu
Tunisia +988
Belgium -333
Draw +458
Over/Under 2.5 and 3
Last Match
It was always going to be an uphill battle for Tunisia. In a group with heavyweights like Belgium and England, only their most ardent supporters expected them to make it out of the group. Their hopes took a major hit in March when superstar Youssef Msakni suffered a major injury, but they almost snagged a draw against England.
Tunisia employed a bend-but-don’t-break strategy against England. There were some hairy moments for sure, but the defense was mostly solid and the goalkeeping was good too. Unfortunately, they were punished for leaving Harry Kane unmarked on a corner kick in stoppage time and they are now in need of a win.
Belgium was very impressive in their win over Panama. They were favored by two goals coming into the match and picked up the cover even though it took some time. Dries Mertens got the scoring started just after halftime with a beautiful volley, and then Romelu Lukaku netted a quick brace to put Belgium in fantastic position.
Key Injury
Unfortunately, Tunisia’s first choice goalkeeper will be out for the rest of the World Cup. Mouez Hassen suffered a shoulder injury while parrying away a John Stones header in the 16th minute, and he was ruled out for the next month by the team doctor. He played well before the injury, but the loss may not hurt too much.
While Hassen was head coach Nabil Maaloul’s first choice at the position, he is by far the least experienced of the three goalkeepers that he brought to Russia. Farouk Ben Mustapha came on to replace Hassen, and he has more experience and is the main man for Saudi Arabian club Al-Shabab. Mustapha played well in relief and will likely play the rest of the tournament.
Matchup to Watch
Tunisia was largely successful on defense in the first match, and they will likely try to play the same style in this match. However, Belgium has more playmakers than England does. While they don’t have a forward that is the caliber of Harry Kane, they have a wealth of talent and can attack from multiple positions.
Kevin De Bruyne is a fantastic tablesetter in the midfield, and he fired in a number of dangerous crosses in the match against Panama. Eden Hazard is a known quantity as a passing wizard, and Romelu Lukaku is a streaky striker that can pour in the goals. The play of Dries Mertens is something to keep an eye on though. With so many other talented players, this team can be really dangerous if he has a good tournament.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
Tunisia are going to be tenacious in defense, but they will eventually break. Belgium is just too strong in too many areas and will find a way to crack the back line. It might be another second half special, but Belgium will get the job done.
World Cup Group Stage Odds: Belgium 2, Tunisia 0
BookMaker offers play-by-play betting odds for live sporting events every day! The user-friendly wagering interface on your smartphone provides an easy way to place bets on the go. Mobile betting lines are updated by the minute, so click here to start gambling on thrilling live action at BookMaker Sportsbook!
