2014 World Cup: South Korea vs Belgium preview

June 25, 2014
By: Nemanja Lazarevic

South Korea vs BelgiumIn spite of the heavy defeat to Algeria, South Korea can still qualify, but they need to defeat very good Belgium side by two goals or more.

Meanwhile, the Red Devils are already through but they might have to draw or win their final group fixture in order to remain top of the group.

South Korea were always a tough nut to crack at the World Cup finals, but they have clearly failed to live up to the billing at the 2014 tournament.

The Taeguk Warriors needed a lucky goal to avoid defeat in their opening match against Russia, while they were utterly disappointing in the 4-2 loss to Algeria.

Following a shocking display in the first period, Korea showed some improvement in the second half, scoring two goals, but they could only make the defeat a bit more easier to swallow.

And while the team would qualify with a convincing win over Belgium provided Algeria do not win, such a scenario does not look likely at the moment.

Although, considering they will be facing a second-string Red Devils side, Korea can be backed at 5.00 (4/1) to claim maximum points.

With no fresh selection worries to report, Hong Myung-Bo is widely expected to field the same side that started the Algeria game.

Probable starting line-up (4-4-2): Sung-Ryong – Yong Lee, Young-Gwon, Jeong-Ho, Suk-Young – Chung-Yong, Sung-Yeung, Kook-Young, Ja-Cheol – Chu-Young, Heung-Min.

Two games into the 2014 tournament and Belgium have all but secured the first place in Group H with as many wins, but the Red Devils were not nearly as convincing as the results would suggest.

Marc Wilmots’ side largely struggled to play to their potential against Algeria and Russia, but the strength in depth and good physical preparation ensured they scored three late goals to claim maximum six points.

And while they are already through, the Red Devils will want to take at least one point from the final match and remain in the first place as that would mean they will probably avoid facing Germany in the next stage.

Marc Wilmots has, however, hinted that he will make a number of changes to the starting line-up, but Belgium still look a good bet at 1/80 (4/5).

Eden Hazard and Vincent Kompany will not be risked as they pick up knocks against Russia, while Thomas Vermaelen is definitely out.

Axel Witsel and Toby Alderweireld are unlikely to feature as they are one yellow away from a ban, while talented Divock Origi should start up front.

Probable starting line-up (4-2-3-1): Mignolet – Vanden Borre, Van Buyten, Lombaerts, Vertonghen – Defour, Dembele – Mirallas, Chadli, Januzaj – Origi.

We Highly Recommend These Places
Share your Opinion!