Is it now time to support France? Currently priced at 11/2, down from 4/1 pre-tournament, France’s odds reflect the unbalanced draw after failing to top their group. However, under Didier Deschamps, they’re unlikely to be fazed by the challenges ahead.
With a track record of consistent success in major tournaments over the past 30 years, France has mastered the art of navigating the group stages and delivering crucial performances when needed. Their ability to produce key moments in pivotal matches is well-established, and we can certainly dream of more. They will take on a rather average Belgium team, and you can read all our tips and analysis in our match predictions article. Furthermore, we have crafted a massive 32/1 bet builder accumulator to make the most of the many betting opportunities available.
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France vs Belgium Bet Builder
France to Win in 90 Minutes
France are expected to triumph over Belgium within regular time, despite their somewhat disjointed start, hampered by Kylian Mbappe’s absence due to a broken nose during their opening match against Austria. However, they have shown enough promise to suggest that overcoming Belgium should not be a daunting task.
France’s defensive prowess has been evident, conceding only one goal, and even that came under controversial circumstances. Mike Maignan saved a penalty against Poland, but the referee ordered a retake due to Maignan stepping off his line, allowing Robert Lewandowski to convert. Offensively, France have not been prolific, scoring only once through an Mbappe penalty and benefiting from an Austria own goal. Yet, they have created more scoring opportunities, with an expected goals (xG) tally of 5.9, the highest in the round of 16, and have registered more touches in the opposition box (112) than any other team in the tournament.
Belgium, on the other hand, have been less convincing. They barely made it to the knockout stage, struggling to a goalless draw against Ukraine in their final group match, where they seemed more focused on running down the clock. Their 2-0 victory over Romania, inspired by Kevin De Bruyne, was a rare highlight, overshadowed by a shocking 1-0 defeat to Slovakia earlier in the tournament. This inconsistency has highlighted Belgium’s decline from their previous status among football’s elite. Given their recent performances and historical struggles, France winning in 90 minutes at 10/11 appears to be a sound bet.
Dodi Lukebakio to Be Shown a Card
Dodi Lukebakio is a prime candidate for receiving a yellow card in this match. Returning from a one-game suspension, Lukebakio has already picked up two yellow cards in his two previous appearances. His playing style, characterised by aggressive challenges and a high work rate, makes him susceptible to disciplinary action.
Belgium’s defensive strategy will likely involve Lukebakio playing a pivotal role in stifling France’s attacking threats. This responsibility will increase his chances of committing fouls, especially against France’s skilful forwards like Mbappe and Griezmann. Lukebakio’s tendency to engage in physical duels, coupled with his disciplinary record, suggests he is a strong contender for being booked in this encounter. Given the high stakes and the need for Belgium to disrupt France’s rhythm, Lukebakio’s aggressive approach is almost certain to attract the referee’s attention.
Kylian Mbappe to Score
Kylian Mbappe is the standout candidate to find the back of the net in this match. After scoring against Poland, Mbappe will be eager to continue his goal-scoring run. His speed, technical ability, and knack for exploiting defensive gaps make him a constant threat to any defence.
Belgium’s defensive unit, despite its strengths, has displayed vulnerabilities that Mbappe is well-equipped to exploit. With creative support from Antoine Griezmann and Ousmane Dembele, Mbappe will likely receive numerous scoring opportunities. His track record in crucial matches and recent form underscore his potential to score at least once in this high-pressure game. Mbappe’s clinical finishing and ability to shine in big moments make him a reliable choice for a goal prediction.
Adrien Rabiot to Receive a Yellow Card
Adrien Rabiot is another player likely to be shown a yellow card in this fixture. Rabiot’s role in midfield requires him to break up play and make vital tackles, often leading to fouls. His aggressive playing style and history of committing fouls in the tournament suggest he will be heavily involved in physical confrontations.
Facing a technically adept Belgian midfield, Rabiot’s defensive responsibilities will be heightened, increasing his chances of committing bookable offences. His inclination to engage in tough tackles and disrupt play positions him as a prime candidate for receiving a yellow card in this intense match. Rabiot’s need to control the midfield battle will likely see him crossing the line, resulting in disciplinary action.
Antoine Griezmann to Provide an Assist
Antoine Griezmann is expected to be the key provider of assists in this game. As France’s primary playmaker, Griezmann will be central to their attacking movements. His vision and precision in delivering passes into the box make him indispensable in setting up goals.
With Mbappe and Dembele making dynamic runs and positioning themselves for decisive passes, Griezmann is poised to create several goal-scoring chances. His understanding with Mbappe, in particular, enhances the probability of him providing an assist, as he consistently seeks to penetrate defences with his intelligent play. Griezmann’s ability to unlock defences and his role at the heart of France’s attack make him a strong contender for contributing assists in this critical match.
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