Belgium will be confident of getting their World Cup campaign off to a good start when they come up against Canada on Wednesday. The pressure is on the Rode Duivels to make the best of their golden generation by putting in a good performance at this year's finals.
They come up against a North American team competing in the finals for just the second time, having previously done so in 1986.
Belgium vs Canada latest odds
Belgium are the big favourites to get the win in their first game of the tournament and are offered at 1/2 (2.05) with bet365.
Canada are the big underdogs and can be backed at 11/2 (6.50) with the draw offered at 10/3 (4.33).
Belgium vs Canada first goal scorer odds
Romelu Lukaku is out injured for this game so Michy Batshuayi is expected to spearhead Belgium's attack. He is the favourite to get the first goal of the game at 4/1 (5.00) while team-mate Lois Openda can be backed at 5/1 (6.00).
Canada star Jonathan David has been spectacular for the national team, needing just 35 caps to score 22 goals. He is offered at 17/2 (9.50) to break the deadlock, while Cyle Larin, who is Canada's all-time top scorer, is priced at 10/1 (11.00).
Belgium vs Canada preview
Despite being deprived of striker Romelu Lukaku, Belgium are believed to have too much quality for Canada to contend with.
Michy Batshuayi will likely lead the line, while Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans, Axel Witsel and Thibaut Courtois are all expected to start this match.
Canada will feel they can spring a surprise, though, as they will field the likes of Bayern Munich hero Alphonso Davies and star forward Cyle Larin and Jonathan David.
Unlike Roberto Martinez, Canada coach John Herdman has no injury troubles to deal with ahead of this game.
Plus, his side were given a bit of a confidence boost a week before this match, having beaten Japan 2-1 in a pre-tournament friendly.
Belgium vs Canada tips and predictions
Belgium are expected to be too strong for Canada in this match, so backing them to win with a -1 handicap at odds of 13/10 (2.30) may be worth the risk, while over 2.5 goals can be backed at 8/11 (1.73).
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
