2018 World Cup Betting Prediction: Belgium vs. Panama Odds
So what is it then, Belgium? Are you ready to take the next step and get in the running to win a major international title, or will the so-called “Golden Generation” come to a close without a trip to the podium? On paper, Belgium has one of the best sides in the tournament and shouldn’t have much trouble with Panama on Monday. This is the type of match that can do wonders for a high-quality team if the ball finds the net a few times, but anything less will be considered a disappointment.
World Cup 2018: Belgium vs. Panama Odds and Betting Analysis
World Cup Moneyline Betting Odds: Belgium -622.
Date: Sunday, June 17, 2 p.m. ET
Rostov Arena, Rostov-on-Don, Russia
Belgium is a big favourite here, moving from -622 up to -682 at the time of publishing and was also the favourite to win Group G. Rightfully so in both cases. They’re significantly stronger than Panama in literally every part of the pitch and when it comes to goals we’ll likely be talking about how many they can pile up on Monday.
A 3-0 Belgium victory seems entirely possible and is priced at +450, while a 4-0 win is even tastier at +750. Romelu Lukaku scored 11 of Belgium’s 43 goals in qualifying and has 13 tallies in his last 9 international contests could be a bargain at +251 to score again against Panama.
Nevermind a point, a Panama goal would be a major accomplishment for this team and is currently priced at +175.
Belgium
Just two players on Belgium’s projected starting 11 are under the age of 30 and this team is very aware that their window to win the big one is closing quickly. Still, they don’t seem concerned about the pressure or the fact that they head into Monday’s match with a number of key injuries (captain Vincent Kompany and Thomas Vermaelen) – nor should they be. Their depth across the pitch might be their greatest strength and holding out a couple of key players while giving regular substitutes a good run in the opener will probably serve them well down the road when they’ll need to be at full strength.
Panama
Nobody will admit it, but Panama is just happy to be here. It’s the first World Cup for this team and it would be considered a major success if the side can earn a point in group play. That isn’t going to happen here. They know their only chance is to park the bus in front of their goal with five defenders at the back, hoping to spring someone on a counter-attack if the chance arises. With the majority of this team on the wrong side of 30 years old, goalkeeper Jaime Penedo will be very busy.
Belgium vs. Panama Prediction
Belgium 4, Panama 0: Don’t expect Belgium to take their foot off the gas. They’ll likely bag a goal or two before the half and the second session could get ugly as Panama tires.
