For Belgium a deep run in the knockout run is the definition of success. They are one of the top World Cup betting favorites in the tournament. For Panama they have already achieved their goal. Simply making the World Cup is their ultimate achievement. They even admit that their trip to Russia is to soak it all in. And perhaps learn a few things for next time around. So Panama will have the freedom of no expectations. While Belgium is under intense pressure. In fact, expectations may be unrealistic. While good, they are not Germany or Brazil.
2018 FIFA World Cup Belgium vs. Panama
Date and Time: Monday, June 18, 2018, 11 a.m. ET
Location: Fisht Olympic Stadium, Sochi
World Cup Betting Online Odds available at SBG: Click Here!
2018 FIFA World Cup TV Coverage: FS1
Belgium as Favorite
Belgium is a +1050 choice to win the World Cup. To win the title Panama is among the biggest dogs at +4500. In Group F Belgium is a -120 favorite. Panama is a +4100 World Cup betting major underdog. This match will be the opener for both teams.
Educational Experience for Panama
Panama head coach Hernan Dario Gomez has said his team is going to enjoy the trip. This is Panama’s first World Cup qualification. And its justifiable that they would celebrate such a landmark achievement. Gomez wants his team to compete hard and learn. But he is quite realistic about his team’s chances. He knows deep down they have no chance. So, they will try to make this an educational experience.
Roman Torres
Roman Torres will gown down in team history as a hero for life. Torres scored the goal that took Panama to Russia. However, what is most impressive about Torres is that he is dominant defensively. Midfielder Gabriel Gomez is another asset. And considered to be the brains of the team. Coach Gomez has built a team that works hard and is disciplined. Solidity and hitting the break is what they do best. Alberto Quintero is yet another creative force for the Panamanians.
Respect for Belgium
Belgium gained a lot of sportsbook online respect during qualification. They broke records and went unbeaten along the way. In qualification Belgium got 28 points in games. While scoring 43 goals. Romelu Lukaku became their all time leading goal scorer. But a couple of lackluster friendlies sobered everyone up fast. And has fans losing sleep. A 3-3 draw against Mexico set off star Kevin De Bruyne. He tore into the tactics of coach Roberto Martinez. Defensively the Belgium team seems to be lacking. And that is what may prevent a run to the championship.
De Bruyne
In De Bruyne, Belgium has a truly dynamic superstar. The midfielder has 14 goals and 62 caps in his international career. But he brings much more to the pitch that mere numbers. His presence is incalculable. Forward Romelu Lukaku has the team record 36 goals in 69 caps. And is a well known star for Manchester United.
Matchup to Watch
Without question this is a World Cup betting mismatch. It’s just a matter of if Belgium will play loose or uptight. Either way Panama lacks the weaponry here.
World Cup Betting Odds Picks
Belgium is clearly the only choice in this matchup.
World Cup Betting Online Pick: Belgium on the money line
World Cup Betting Online Score Prediction: Belgium 2, Panama 0
Check out highlights of Belgium’s all time leading goal scorer Romelu Lukaku!