The FIFA World Cup is down to just 4 teams. After a month’s worth of terrific soccer that saw world powerhouses be eliminated and penalty kicks that were down to the wire, we are down to the top 4 teams. The first matchup in the semi-finals will be France vs. Belgium in an affair that will see both French nations face off against each other in what should be a competitive match.
France got here by dominating the group stages of the events, narrowly defeating Lionel Messi and Argentina and then dominating Uruguay to make it to the Semis. Belgium also topped their group and went on to face Japan in what was arguably the best game of the tournament and then defeat the lackluster Brazilians. Now, the arguably two best-performing teams in the tournament will be playing in the Semi-Finals.
Although their side of the knockout stages was filled with competitive teams both France and Belgium have shown that they deserve to be in this position. France has always been in good form in every game they’ve played, passing the ball well and not being afraid to attack when necessary. Their front-line of Antoinne Griezzman, Mbappe, Paul Pogba, Dembele has really been impressive in every game of the tournament.
For Belgium, their all-star cast of players has performed well as well. With the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard in the forward positions they are always a threat to score in the fast break. Belgium also has the defensive expertise of Vincent Kompany as their anchor and that helps them from getting scored on.
In all honesty, this may shape up to be the game of the tournament because of how well both sides are playing and because both sides have phenomenal soccer players. I would not be surprised at all if this goes to penalties. Another little interesting note to this game is that former Frenchman and World Cup champion Thierry Henry is a coach for the Belgium side so it will be interesting to see his reaction during the game.
