World Cup Forensics: Brazil vs Belgium

Brazil and Belgium go head-to-head in one of the World Cup's most anticipated encounters. Belgium have found some good form and have been solid whilst Brazil look like the team on the brink of breaking out into blistering form.

The Brazilians will be without Casemiro who is suspended, with Fernandinho expected to take his place. Marcelo will return to the side after Filipe Luis deputised last time out, whilst Belgium have no injury or fitness concerns coming into this clash.

Kevin De Bruyne's role will be a point of intrigue, as he has struggled so far in his Central Midfield role where he's being asked to operate from a deep position. It's similar but not quite the same as the role he employs for Manchester City, and it'll be intriguing to see if Roberto Martinez makes any changes to help him break free.

Gabriel Jesus may have to make way for Roberto Firmino if his form doesn't lift, but he's also expected to keep his place for the big clash at Nizhny Novgorod.

Neymar has 2 goals and 2 assists so far in the World Cup without ever really hitting top gear, and if he and Jesus can round into form they can cause Belgium's back three a lot of trouble. Toby Alderweireld, Vincent Kompany and Jan Vertonghen form one of the world's tidiest defences, so it's not going to be easy.

Brazil are winning 45% of simulations according to Stats Insider Simulations, with Belgium winning just 25% of the time, and the draw at 30%.

The Under 2.5 has a 9% percent edge, but I'm not sure how I feel about that. Though both teams have strong defences, this has the makings of an open, attacking encounter. With that in mind, this market is a clear stay away. There's too much attacking quality at play here.

This is also another market I'm staying away from. There are so many unknowns from this encounter that I don't feel good about this market. Stick with an outright result if you're going to dive into this one.

Belgium were saved thanks to goals from substitutes Marouane Fellaini and Nacer Chadli in their comeback win over Japan, and that just doesn't fill me with confidence for their encounter with Brazil. The Japanese showed there are weaknesses that can be exploited in this Belgian side.

For that reason I'm getting behind Brazil. If they can find a way to keep Romelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard from having a huge impact that's the key, as well as forcing De Bruyne to do plenty of defensive work which will curb his attacking influence.

The Seleção will not give the chances to Belgium that Japan did, and that will be the difference here. Brazil's campaign will continue, whilst the Belgians will not.

We are currently providing free predictions for every World Cup game when you make a Stats Insider account. This access will only be free for a limited time while we optimise our website. Sign up now to get free access to everything.

Don't forget to follow us on Facebook & Twitter!