These two teams were poised to reach the final of this World Cup but they both suffered heartbreaks in the semifinal to set up this unwanted rematch. Inexperience was a major factor in their losses to Croatia and France in the semifinal respectively, but this game should be an exciting one to watch.
England have succeeded in making their country fall in love with the national team again, and for a team as young as they are, they still have the chance to win this competition in the future. They beat Tunisia and Panama to reach the round of 16.
They beat Colombia on penalties in the round of 16 before eliminating Sweden 2-0 in their quarterfinal match to set up a semifinal clash with Croatia. After leading the Croatians for more than 60 minutes, a costly mistake in the 68th minute allowed Ivan Perisic to equalize for the Croatians who went on to score yet again in the second half of extra time to win the game 2-1.
This English team is the best we have seen in years and winning third place would be a fitting way to exit the World Cup.
Belgium were considered one of the favourites for the World Cup this year because of the array of stars that they have plying their trade in Europe’s top five leagues. When they eliminated Brazil in the quarterfinals it became clear that they could win this.
They were, however, undone by the French men who had more men at the back as they had in their attack for the duration of the game in the semifinal. Samuel Umtiti’s back post header was the difference between the two sides. The Belgians would also be looking to bow out of the World Cup in style by winning third place.
