BetVernons Analysis - Group H
On paper, Group H looks relatively even matched but Belgium will be fancied by most as group winners. Russia and Korea Republic will provide a threat and Algeria, who famously held England to a goalless draw four years ago, are an improving side he will be eager to impress.
The teams
Belgium can boast an array of world class talent and will be hoping they can channel their individual threat into a team to be feared throughout the competition. Even without Aston Villa star Christian Benteke, the Europeans have enough throughout their squad to make an impact in Brazil.
Russia and Korea Republic will be hoping to progress from Group H and both nations have the guile and skill to make a lasting impression. The former are just four years away from hosting the competition so it is imperative for their fans to see a side that can challenge on home soil.
Algeria are perhaps most bookmakers favourites to finish bottom of Group H but the Africans will be keen to quash those pre-tournaments expectations.
Players to watch
Romelu Lukaku (BEL), Eden Hazard (BEL), Toby Alderweireld (BEL), Sofiane Feghouli (ALG), Saphir Taider (ALG), Kim Bo-Kyung (KOR), Koo ja-Cheol (KOR), Park Chu-Young (KOR), Igor Akinfeev (RUS), Aleksandr Kokorin (RUS).
Group decider
Russia-Korea Republic: Top group seeds Belgium will be watching eagerly to see the outcome of this game. The Russians will be slight favourites against their Asian opponents in what promises to be a ‘winner takes all’ game.
Both sides have the individual talent to cause damage but the side that shows a real team togetherness will be the likely victors.
History archive
Soviet Union 3-4 Belgium (AET), 15 June 1986, Leon/Nou Camp
Soviet Union and Russia played out one of the most memorable games in what will be remembered as Maradona’s World Cup. The Red Devils scored three goals in extra time to knockout their European counterparts in a thrilling encounter.
The Belgians eventually went on to the semi-finals – the furthest they have got in World Cup history – before succumbing to eventual winners Argentina.















