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Belgium vs Panama: Can Roberto Martinez lead his side to glory?

By Kian Long

LIEGE, BELGIUM - AUGUST 31: Thomas Meunier of Belgium celebrates scoring a goal with team mates Mousa Dembele, Kevin De Bruyne and Yannick Carrasco during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Belgium and Gibraltar at Stade Maurice Dufrasne on August 31, 2017 in Liege, Belgium. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
LIEGE, BELGIUM - AUGUST 31: Thomas Meunier of Belgium celebrates scoring a goal with team mates Mousa Dembele, Kevin De Bruyne and Yannick Carrasco during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier between Belgium and Gibraltar at Stade Maurice Dufrasne on August 31, 2017 in Liege, Belgium. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images) /
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Belgium will take on Panama in their opening match of Group G.

Roberto Martinez and co. will kick off their World Cup campaign against Panama. Of course, this could be a tale of the best side in the group dominating the worst side, but I hope not. Belgium are favorites to progress, while Panama are seen as the weakest link.

Belgium are hoping for a fruitful campaign, after underachieving in recent seasons. They certainly have the players to do so, but they need to be fired up.

They will be playing at the same time as England and Tunisia, the other two nationalities making up group G.

Players to look out for

Belgium: Eden Hazard

The Chelsea star is notorious for coming up with the goods on the big occasion. More often than not, he has been Chelsea’s go-to man in the big games.

Having impressed in the Champions League this season, as well as the FA Cup final, he will be fired up to achieve great things with Belgium.

He will play in a star-studded attack, something he isn’t used to with Chelsea. He will partner with the in-form Romelu Lukaku, as the two look to seek out goals, especially early on.

Hazard has a flair-based approach, and he always looks calm in possession. He likes to roam, while dropping deep to pick up possession. Without a doubt, he will be a problem to the Panamanian defense.

Panama: Gabriel Torres

Let’s be honest, there isn’t one name which springs to mind when you hear the word Panama. Unless of course, you’re an avid MLS fan, as there is a large plethora of Panamanians donning the American league.

Gabriel Torres is the name which springs to mind. Applying his trade in Chile, he has picked up a lot of knowledge on how to play the game.

The Telegraph report he was once a transfer target of Manchester United, but a lot of time has passed since then.

He is the main threat which the Belgium defense will need to look out for, as he can cause problems when running in behind.

Prediction

Belgium 4-0 Panama

Although I hope it isn’t the case, I can see nothing else but a Belgium whitewash.

When you contrast the fiery attack which Belgium possess, matched with the frail Panama defense, it’s hard to predict anything else.

However, we all know how Belgium fail to capitalize on weak opposition, so don’t be surprised to see Panama putting up a good fight. So far this tournament, it’s been fruitful for the underdogs, with Iceland holding Argentina, and Iran snatching three points against Morocco.

On paper though, Hazard, Lukaku and their countrymen should be licking their lips. Nothing but three points will be acceptable for them, as anything else could put them in a sticky situation for the rest of the group stage.

Next: France edge out Aussies in tight group C opener

What do you think the score will be in this match?

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