Both Belgium and Russia will try to improve on weak first match performances that nevertheless saw the Belgians win and the Russians steal a draw. Belgium had to sweat for their three points against Algeria, who took an early lead and defended resolutely. Russia also fell behind against South Korea before Alexander Kerzhakov’s scrappy equalizer.
What’s At Stake
Belgium will progress with a win. A Russian win would put them in pole position, with the supposedly “easy” match against Algeria to come.
Belgium play 4-2-3-1, with two of Axel Witsel, Mousa Dembele, and Marouane Fellaini in the “2” and a skillful front four that features Chelsea’s Eden Hazard dribbling from the left and Wolfsburg’s Kevin de Bruyne creating from the middle. Centerback Jan Vertonghen played at left back against Algeria and was caught out for the penalty that put the Africans ahead; he may be replaced today, but it’ll only be by another centerback.
Russia play 4-3-3, with two deep midfielders behind two wingers (Samedov and Zhirkov against South Korea, though that could change today) who will take advantage of Belgium’s fullback problems. Alexander Kokorin, who started at center forward last week, moves well and will help his wingers create overloads.
Both teams notably went to a “Plan B” to salvage their first matches. Belgium threw on Manchester United’s towering Marouane Fellaini (pictured above) and hit crosses at him until he scored a header. Russia subbed in old stager Alexander Kerzhakov, who found the poacher’s goal that tied the match.
Players to Watch
Belgium: Eden Hazard. He may not be the most important player for the Belgians, but his footwork is incredible. He ties defenders in knots.
Russia: Kokorin, who was Russia’s most dangerous player against South Korea and tends to pop up in unexpected areas of the pitch.
Derek Rae and Efan Ekoku. Actual Efan Ekoku quote from yesterday’s Argentina vs. Iran match: “I hope he’s pretty badly hurt.”
At one point, Efan thought he’d seen a penalty. It appeared to Efan that Argentina’s Pablo Zabaleta hadn’t touched the ball when he challenged Ashkan Dejagah in the box. When replays showed he had indeed touched it, Efan scornfully said, “Well, if the referee’s seen that, he’s got better eyes than me.” Maybe he does, Efan. Maybe he does.
Match-specific Drinking Games
Afro Thunder: Drink whenever you mix up Axel Witsel and Marouane Fellaini. Be honest! How drunk? If they start together, you’ll get a few quick sips in and then find your rhythm.
Hopeful: Take a shot whenever Belgium have a pop from outside the box. How drunk? Hammered. The Belgians love a long shot, and they’ll be keen to test Russian keeper Igor Akinfeev after his error last week.
Blinders: Take a shot whenever Efan Ekoku refuses to correct a mistake despite clear contradictory video evidence. Or says out loud that he hopes a player is seriously injured. How drunk? Roaring.
Belgium: Westvleteren 12. Again, this beer is hard to find, but any good Belgian-style beer will do. I had the excellent “Candi” tripel from Old Dominion Brewing Company recently. Try that one!
Russia: Vodka. Don’t buy Russian vodka, though, or the blood’s on your hands when President Putin annexes Germany.
For more:
– Read my general World Cup watching guide.
– Check out Zonal Marking, my favorite tactics website.
– See a commentary schedule or a review of each commentator.
– See where I’m getting my national drink recommendations.
– Check out other match previews from this group: Russia vs. South Korea, Belgium vs. Algeria
Picture credit: theguardian.com
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