Belgium vs Panama
FIFA World Cup 2018 Group G
Date: Monday, 18 June 2018
Kick-Off at 17:00 GMT +2
Venue: Olimpiyskiy Stadion Fisht, Sochi.

Belgium kick off their World Cup campaign on Monday, June 18th. They are to play arguably the weakest side in the entire tournament in their opening fixture.

The difference in quality between these two outfits is just massive and we expect a one-sided contest from the first whistle on the day.

Roberto Martinez will be under a massive pressure in Russia as he has the honour of leading the golden generation of Belgian players. The Red Devils enter the competition as one of the shadow favourites to go all the way this summer.

Panama are the only debutants in this edition of the tournament having shockingly secured their tickets for Russia on the expense of United States who only came fifth at the end of the final round in the CONCACAF qualifying zone.

Panama managed a huge comeback to secure the 2-1 victory over Costa Rica thanks to the 87th-minute match winner on the final day. United States lost their away fixture to Trinidad & Tobago with the same result even though their counterparts had already lost all hopes of qualifying.

Panama have played eight friendly outings ever since, winning only two in the process.

Match Facts

This will only be the first ever head to head encounter between Belgium and Panama.

Belgium scored an impressive 43-goal tally in ten qualifying affairs winning nine of them.

Belgium won three and drew one of last four friendlies and they’ll come up against a side which failed to score more than once in last five internationals.

Panama are enjoying their maiden appearance at the biggest stage.

Betting Tips

Belgium to win: 1.22

Panama to win: 18

Belgium and Panama to draw: 7.4