Belgium starts its Euro 2020 with a match against Russia on Saturday as part of Group B action. On the first day with multiple games, this is the final clash on the slate. The two teams are joined in their group with Denmark and Finland, with Belgium and Denmark viewed as the favorites to advance to the round of 16 by earning the top two spots in the table. Manager Roberto Martinez leads the top ranked team in the world against a group that isn't expected to bother the Belgians, can they live up to expectations?
Here's how you can watch the match and what to know:
Viewing information
- Date: Saturday, June 12
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Location: Saint-Petersburg Stadium -- St. Petersburg, Russia
- TV: ABC
- Live stream: fuboTV
- Odds: Belgium -155; Draw +285; Russia +450 (via William Hill Sportsbook)
Storylines
Belgium: One of the favorites of the competition, it's vital for the Red Devils to get off to a hot start. They shouldn't have too much to worry about in regards to Russia, even on the road. Expect Roberto Martinez's team to dominate the chances, control the tempo and potentially win comfortably, with Kevin de Bruyne leading the way.
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Russia: Expectations are high after advancing to the knockout stage of the last World Cup, which they hosted. But if they are to do so, they'll need the very best version of Aleksandr Golovin. The AS Monaco man is a top talent that can change a game in a second with his creativity and ability to score. If he can produce consistently in the middle, there is no reason why Russia can't get something from this match.
Prediction
Romelu Lukaku starts strong with two goals in a dominate display by one of the cup favorites. Pick: Belgium 3, Russia 1
