2022 World Cup: France vs. Belgium Preview, Odds, Prediction

France and Denmark once again face one another at the World Cup. Four years ago, these two teams met in the group stage, and later on, the Gauls went on to win the title. The French players hope to see the same outcome again, but the Danish team has other plans. In order to reach them, they would need to win here or at least stay unbeaten. Meanwhile, the Gauls have three points from the opening clash, and come into this battle without pressure.

Preview

France (-110) trashed Australia in the first game, 4-1, allowing the Socceroos to score first, before ripping apart the team from down under. It was a one-sided domination of the French unit, that showed us massive potential upfront, even though they lack a few players, among other Benzema and Nkunku.

We need to say that the partnership between Giroud and Mbappe is the healthiest, and the chemistry between PSG’s star and Benzema wasn’t anywhere near. Mbappe is currently unstoppable, and we’ve seen that against Australia.

The defense with Upamecano and Konate is a bit shaky, and overall, France conceded in five of the previous seven events. Though, back then, the Gauls played UEFA Nations League, which didn’t motivate them too much.

Denmark (+300) against Tunisia was a pale shadow of last year’s EURO team. We didn’t see any of their aggressiveness or mobility in the midfield, and what is more important, we haven’t noticed any fire and desire to win in their approach. That was the biggest weapon of this unit in the past.

As usual, Denmark’s games are inefficient, and a goalless draw against Tunisia was the fourth event in the recent five with under 2.5 scores. The problem is often not in their philosophy or playstyle but in the inability to score or at least create chances.

Eriksen is slow and sluggish, while Dolberg and the rest of the forwards are more or less invisible. Denmark posted solid results before the World Cup, yet their game, even then, wasn’t that impressive.

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Some suggest that Varane might be back in the lineup, replacing Upamecano. But that is yet to be determined. Lucas Hernandez is out, and Theo Hernandez will now start on the left back.

Denmark needs to make certain changes following the opener. One of them will be forced because Delaney picked up an injury, and his appearance is highly doubtful.

Head to Head Games

Four years ago, we saw these two teams playing without goals, which was the only event at that tournament to end, 0-0. This year, France and Denmark met in the UEFA Nations League, and Denmark won on both occasions, 1-2 in Paris and 2-0 at home.

Prediction

France looks better at the moment. They are far more dangerous than Denmark, which was disappointing against Tunisia. Despite the fact that the Gauls don’t have to rush and chase the positive result, their win is the most realistic outcome here. France did lose to Denmark twice this year, but in a minor competition, and the situation now will be different.

Pick: France wins -110