The first World Cup semi-final will see Belgium take on France in St. Petersburg. The Belgians have equaled their previous best performance on the global stage of a fourth place finish at Mexico '86. The Red Devils currently lead the scoring charts in Russia with 14 goals and, under the guidance of Roberto Martinez, and with an array of Premier League talents, they have a real chance of winning their first World Cup title.

The two sides have not played each other in a competitive match for 32 years - since that third place playoff game in Mexico. France won 4-2 that day, and have had the upper hand in the eight friendlies played since, winning all but two. But in the last match, which featured many of Belgium's current generation of players, Belgium won 4-3.

Wing back Thomas Menier is suspended, so a reshuffle at the back is due for Martinez's men. Kevin de Bruyne is expected to continue his role as a false nine alongside Manchester United forward Romelu Lukaku who has been working well with assistant coach and France's record scorer Thierry Henry. Goals can be expected from both sides, but the Belgium coach Martinez knows defensive duties will be just as important.

(Cover photo: Kevin De Bruyne of Belgium attends a press conference ahead of the Semi Final match against France. /VCG photo)