World Cup Semi-Finals Preview and Predictions

The final four teams are set for the semi-finals and it is shaping up to be two memorable games to decide the World Cup bout. In one matchup, we have the great story of Belgium going up against the favorites France. The second match pits two countries that were not expecting to be here: England and Croatia.

France vs Belgium 

We must start with France, who has put together a remarkable tournament. Mbappe and Griezman have been two of the go-to guys for goals. Coupled with Pogba mastering the midfield, no team has been able to find a solution to beat this team.

Belgium has been the dark horse of the tournament. They are now one win away from playing in the championship game. Their road has been emotional and difficult at times, which may pay off in the long run.

These countries have faced each other 73 times. Belgium has won 30 games to France’s 24 victories. They have drawn in the other 19 games. The last time they met, in 2015, Belgium defeated France 4-3 in a friendly. It has been 32 years since the Red Devils had a chance in the semi-finals. On the other hand, Les Bleus looks to match their 1998 campaign.

Verdict: Belgium once again find a way to scrape by and play for the chance to raise the trophy for the first time. 

England vs Croatia

England has been an organized team – from the forwards all the way back to the goalkeeper. They have been great on set pieces and have used it to their advantage throughout the tournament. Kane has been the team’s main goal scorer. However, additional players have stepped up in that area recently. Pickford has been outstanding in goal and they will need him to be sharp again this time around.

Croatia was not expected to be in this position. Yet they find themselves right here. They have played the majority of their games into extra time and shootouts. This could prove to be costly in their bout with England.

These teams have only met five times prior. England won three and Croatia won the other two. They met most recently in the 2010 World Cup qualifying round. England took home the victory 5-1. This is the first time Vetrani will be playing in the semi-final game and the first since 1990 for the Three Lions.

Verdict: England wins it in penalties after three straight games of shootouts taking its toll on Croatia.

We await to see who plays for the Cup. But the only certainty today is that we’ve got you covered.

Follow me on Twitter: @SOURCEFRIAS