2018 FIFA World Cup: Belgium to clash with England for top spot
Updated 12:08, 30-Jun-2018
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We continue with a look at one of tomorrow's choice matches at the World Cup, when Belgium face England to decide the top spot in Group G. The Belgians came into the tournament sitting third in the FIFA rankings, and scored a combined eight goals in their wins over Panama and Tunisia. But the Red Devils are expecting a much tougher test from the youthful Three Lions who have been equally successful. Dan Williams reports from Moscow.
Belgium is on a roll at this World Cup. And that includes "head tennis." Two wins from two games, eight goals scored, and more importantly, Belgium has already qualified for the knockout rounds. But the players are not getting carried away with that achievement as they prepare to take on England.
MAROUANE FELLAINI BELGIUM MIDFIELDER "I think both teams, Belgium and England, to play against Panama and Tunisia, I don't say it is easy, but you should win against Tunisia and Panama. So for me, it is not we did well, it is normal. After, we are qualified, and we will see now if we are good or not."
DAN WILLIAMS MOSCOW "With both sides having qualified for the next round, the only factor still to be decided is who will finish top. In most World Cups, that is normally an important element. But for Belgium and England, finishing second might be more favorable."
Although the exact permutations have yet to be confirmed, it would look as though the second placed team would have a potentially easier route to the final. Both sides are promising to rest key players for the match, but that does not necessarily mean either side wants to lose.
TOBY ALDERWEIRELD BELGIUM DEFENDER "I think, first of all, every team wants to win every game. To do their best. To play for their country. Second of all, I think you want to stay with good momentum as well, because we are in a winning mood. I never went into a game thinking it is better to lose. It does not work like this. You always give 100%."
Belgium are currently ranked third in the world rankings, helped by a run of 21 games without defeat stretching back almost two years. Given the strength in the squad, some of the traveling journalists feel the time is right for Belgium to win a first-ever World Cup.
FRANCOIS COLIN BELGIAN SPORTS JOURNALIST "A lot of players are 30 or more, so for them, this will be the last World Cup. So many players feel they have to do it now."
If these are the celebrations for head tennis, just imagine the reaction if Belgium goes on to win the World Cup. Dan Williams, CGTN, Moscow.