CanMNT vs. Belgium World Cup Game 1 Preview

⚽️ The matchup

The GIST: In a classic David vs. Goliath matchup, Canada is the hopeful underdog against a dominant Belgium squad seeking to finally get their hands on the elusive World Cup trophy.

Their history: With Canada’s gap in elite international competition outside of CONCACAF, the last time these teams faced each other was way back in 1989, a game in which Belgium won 2–0. It may be a long time ago, but hey, the maple marauders still have some bad blood to settle.

• Lack of head-to-head history aside, the significant 39-place difference between the country’s FIFA rankings highlights the talent disparity between the two lineups. Add in Belgium’s hefty tourney experience — including 2018’s tough semifinal exit — and Canada’s in for a tough battle.

The significance: Today’s match will set the tournament tone for both teams. While the first of three group play matches may not have immediate consequences, with only two out of four squads advancing to the knockout round, every. point. matters.

• For Canada, a win may be a longshot, but if they can put some pressure on the experienced Belgium defense, or even tap in a goal, we’d be pretty happy. Can’t blame us for dreaming of a draw, right?

🇨🇦 CanMNT

The GIST: In a classic David vs. Goliath matchup, Canada is the hopeful underdog against a dominant Belgium squad seeking to finally get their hands on the elusive World Cup trophy.

Their history: With Canada’s gap in elite international competition outside of CONCACAF, the last time these teams faced each other was way back in 1989, a game in which Belgium won 2–0. It may be a long time ago, but hey, the maple marauders still have some bad blood to settle.

• Lack of head-to-head history aside, the significant 39-place difference between the country’s FIFA rankings highlights the talent disparity between the two lineups. Add in Belgium’s hefty tourney experience — including 2018’s tough semifinal exit — and Canada’s in for a tough battle.

The significance: Today’s match will set the tournament tone for both teams. While the first of three group play matches may not have immediate consequences, with only two out of four squads advancing to the knockout round, every. point. matters.

• For Canada, a win may be a longshot, but if they can put some pressure on the experienced Belgium defense, or even tap in a goal, we’d be pretty happy. Can’t blame us for dreaming of a draw, right?

🇧🇪 The opponent: Belgium

The team: As mentioned, No. 2 Belgium is entering this year’s tourney under pressure. Admittedly nearing the end of their golden era, the aging star-studded squad is ready to take advantage of their likely last chance to earn the nation’s first World Cup title.

• And they look poised to do so: the Red Devils were unbeaten through the qualifying tournament. Though their kit may leave much to be desired, Belgium’s on-pitch performance is no joke.

Players to watch: While the country boasts world-class talent, standout stars include Manchester City’s elite midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who’s the complete package, and Romelu Lukaku, whose striking prowess will be missed as he’s expected to be sidelined due to an ongoing hamstring injury.

• Belgium’s talent doesn’t stop with the attack. With elite keeper Thibaut Courtois in net, fans certainly won’t be sweating when the odd shot on net heads his way.

Keys to success: Not getting overconfident will be important for the Red Devils. If they can put pressure on Canada’s shaky backline and take control early in the game, there’s no stopping this hungry squad.