In a World Cup that has featured more than its share of surprises, Belgium put together the biggest stunner of all – rallying from two goals down through 68 minutes to shock Japan and reach the quarterfinals.
A similar slow start will likely mean a different fate this time around, as the Belgians take on a Brazil team that is starting to look like the team to beat. The Brazilians reached the final eight with a convincing 2-0 victory over Mexico, and are comfortable +110 favorites against Belgium (+275).
QUICK-HITTER
While both teams have been among the most highest-scoring units in the tournament, neither has been all that prolific in the early goings of their respective matches. Only one of Brazil's six goals over the previous three games has been scored in the first half, while Belgium has only two first-half goals out of nine converted in their last three matches.
It might not be the sexiest quick-hitter play on the board, but bettors shouldn't expect to see any goals in the opening 30 minutes of this one as both teams seek to feel each other out.
PREDICTION: No goals in first 30 minutes (-120)
FIRST-HALF BET
Need another reason to expect a low-scoring first half? Look at how both sides have defended prior to the break. Belgium has allowed four goals in its previous three games, but just one has come in the opening 45 minutes plus injury time. Meanwhile, Brazil has been a fortress in the back end, having not allowed a goal in any of its previous three contests.
There are a number of ways bettors can go here, but with neither team likely to relent in the opening half, going with a scoreless draw at the break is an intriguing option.
PREDICTION: 0-0 correct first-half score (+175)
TEAM/PLAYER BET
Belgian fans partied into the night after their side pulled off that incredible comeback, but let's not ignore the fact that Belgium fell behind 2-0 in the first place. And that has been a theme with the Belgians, who have surrendered 28 goals in 12 elimination games in team history. Brazil might be a slow starter, but it is a ruthless finisher, and Neymar will be incredibly difficult to contain.
Look for Brazil's offensive and emotional leader to take advantage of at least one quality scoring chance as he looks to lead his side back to the semifinals.
PREDICTION: Neymar anytime goal (+130)
FULL-GAME SIDE
Make no mistak: these teams can fill the net. But Brazil has been ridiculously stingy with opposing scoring chances over the previous three games, and Belgium will find out first hand how tough that back line is should the Brazilians grab a lead. There won't be a spirited comeback this time around, barring a red card, penalty or other catastrophic error from Tite's side.
Three consecutive 2-0 victories have Brazil looking iron-clad as the tournament favorite, and they're in great position to reach the semis against a Belgian side that is fortunate to have made it this far.
PREDICTION: Draw/Brazil as the halftime/fulltime result (+400)
FULL-GAME TOTAL
This should be one of the most entertaining games of the quarterfinal round, with the chess match between Belgium's talented forwards and Brazil's sensational defense the most interesting subplot of all. It'll likely take two goals to come away with the win in this one, and both teams have the talent and creativity to make that happen.
Even if the sides play a conservative first half, the Over play is a strong option here. And that becomes an even greater play should someone score in the opening 45 minutes.
PREDICTION: Over 2.5 (+100)
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