Can Panama Deny Belgium
Of course Belgium will win this one, even if I think Panama will struggle to the very last. There’s so much that separates these two that it could be a real rout. If Belgium get a goal early on it could easily be 4 or 5 nil.
The Belgians will want to show their potential opposition that they should be taken seriously and it will be good for their main men to get off to a good start. Players like Lukaku, Mertens and Hazard will welcome the opportunity to get on the scoresheet in the first match. If it’s looking tough there’s always the option of Michy Batshuayi coming on to ruffle some feathers.
It’s unlikely Belgium will leave anything to chance
Belgium will most likely have the majority of possession throughout the match, and Panama will have a tough time of it considering the Belgians have some truly world class players amongst their ranks. It’s unlikely Belgium will leave anything to chance, after all it’s the opening game of the World Cup and Belgium still have something to prove.
As I’ve said, it’s not impossible that Belgium could run away with this one and there’s a strong chance Panama could get taken to the cleaners. Although I’m not wagering a huge amount on this one my bet will be Belgium -3 on a three way handicap. Also for them to win with 4 or more.