Ranked second in the world and not without good reason, yet Belgium always seem on the brink of blowing their latest big chance.
Boss Martinez desperately needs Eden Hazard to find sharpness while Romelu Lukaku’s fitness is a big worry ahead of their World Cup opener.
Here’s everything you need to know about Belgium…
Coach: Roberto Martinez. The former Wigan and Everton manager now into sixth year in charge.
Captain: Eden Hazard. Still the driving leader of the team despite a torrid injury run at Real Madrid since leaving Chelsea.
Star player: Kevin De Bruyne. Manchester City’s assist king will put chances on a plate for team-mates all tournament long.
One to watch: Leandro Trossard. Raced into goalscoring and creating form with Brighton, only adding to Belgium’s attacking array.
World ranking: 2
Odds: 16/1
Best thing about them: Ridiculously talented squad of household names, especially attacking stars.
Worst thing about them: Injuries to key players could prove a big hindrance.
Their prospects in three words: Time to deliver.
Fixtures (all times GMT)
- November 23 vs Canada (7pm)
- November 27 vs Morocco (1pm)
- December 1 vs Croatia (3pm)
Squad
Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Simon Mignolet, Koen Casteels.
Defenders: Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld, Wout Faes, Arthur Theate, Zeno Debast, Thomas Meunier, Timothy Castagne.
Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans, Amadou Onana, Axel Witsel, Hans Vanaken, Leander Dendoncker, Yannick Carrasco, Thorgan Hazard.
Forwards: Eden Hazard, Charles De Ketelaere, Leandro Trossard, Dries Mertens, Jeremy Doku, Romelu Lukaku, Michy Batshuayi, Lois Openda.
