Wales vs. Belgium Preview
Where: Stade Pierre-Mauroy – Lille, France
When: Friday, July 1, 3:00 PM ET
Line: Wales +340 vs. Belgium -141, tie +235; total: 2.0 – view all Euro 2016 lines
TV Broadcast: ESPN2
Writer’s Pick: Wales
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Offensive Edge – Belgium (-141)
Belgium visibly has the substantial edge in terms of attacking ability. The Red Devils are coming off a comprehensive 4-0 thrashing of Hungary in the round of 16, and also smashed Ireland 3-0 in the group stage.
Wales can’t match the volume of Belgium’s weapons, but it could still have the best player on the field with Gareth Bale. Bale has lived up to all the expectations entering the tournament. He’s co-top scorer with three goals, and will be very dangerous in set pieces. The Welsh offense thrives when Bale has space to counter-attack. With Belgium eager to go forward, Bale should find ample space to run onto.
Defensive Edge – Wales (+340)
Wales’ defense is very dependable. Chris Coleman’s side is well-drilled and organized, as Belgium knows all too well. The Welsh held the Belgians goalless across two meetings during qualifying. There’s a significant concern with that defense, though, as captain and center-back Ashley Williams is still doubtful after suffering a shoulder injury against Northern Ireland.
However, it’s nothing compared to the mini-crisis Belgium now has to contend with. The entire left side of Belgium’s defense will be out for the quarterfinal. Thomas Vermaelen is suspended while Jan Vertonghen injured his ankle in training and will miss the rest of the tournament. Their likely replacements, Jason Denayer and Jordan Lukaku, are very inexperienced and will be liabilities at the back.
Writer’s Prediction: Wales exploits Belgium’s backline and grabs the upset win (+341).
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