World Cup Qualifiers: Belgium vs. Czech Republic Preview, Odds, Prediction

Belgium and the Czech Republic will decide about first place in Group E of the World Cup qualifiers. Belgians are currently first in the assembly with three points more than tonight’s rival and a draw in Prague, which gives them a solid advantage before this contest. Meanwhile, the Czechs have seven points in four games, losing to Wales on the road in March, which could turn out to be disastrous for Jaroslav Silhavy’s crew. They need to win in Brussels to erase Belgium’s edge.

Preview

Belgium (-250) was in a lot of pain following the recent EURO. Arguably the biggest favorites for the title were shut down in the round of 16 against Italy, 1-2, and all the bad luck and injuries culminated at the European championship. The Devils are now getting back on track, wanting to secure the ticket to Qatar and attack the world title, which would be the crown of this fantastic generation.

They played in Estonia for the weekend, and even though falling behind quickly, managed to roll over the hosts, packing five goals while allowing two. It was a pure display of Belgium’s raw power.

This team scored 17 goals in the qualifiers, and that pretty much suggests that they have a very potent attack. But you already knew that because Belgium has Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, among other players. It is the main reason why most of their matches see over 2.5 goals.

The Czech Republic (+600) defeated Belarus during the weekend, 1-0, and even though some might suggest that they struggled a lot, Silhavy’s side controlled the entire match.

This side reached the quarterfinals at EURO, showing its worth, playing neck to neck with all the best teams on the continent. Unfortunately, Denmark eliminated them 1-2, but the wins over the Netherlands, 2-0, and a fantastic goal Patrik Schick netted against Scotland, remain forever.

Only three of the past 10 games were with over 2.5 goals, suggesting that the Czech Republic plays cautious football, protecting its box well. Though, we need to say that this unit has a very strong midfield formed from the players who are excellent in counter-attacks.

Latest News

Leicester’s midfielder Youri Tielemans was out after Estonia due to a minor ankle injury, and he remains questionable for tonight’s game. Eden Hazard is expected on the field while his brother, Thorghan, is out.

Shick is unavailable for the Czechs, and Pavel Karadebek is out too.

Head to Head Games

The game at Sinobo Stadium in Prague saw a draw in the end, 1-1. Provod scored the leading goal for the home team after 50 minutes, and Lukaku equalized some ten minutes later.

Prior to that match, these nations had a friendly international, in Belgium, where the hosts won, 2-1. That game took place in 2017.

Prediction

Belgium should win this event, because the Czechs come without Shick, who is pretty much a difference-maker in their unit. Young Adam Hlozek will start, but with all due respect to young wunderkind, he doesn’t have the experience nor the capacity to battle with the fantastic Belgian defense. On the other side, when playing at home, the Devils’ attack is ruthless, and that is why we predict their easy win.

Pick: Belgium -250