1 France v Belgium
Should be a cracker. But one still gets the feeling that Deschamps is still not allowing the French to fully express itself. In the 1st few games, he tried to build the formation around Pogba. The result - cagey performances.
Then tried the Griezmann route, which meant Giroud was brought in. Result- improvement but no real fire.
Finally- the Mbappe avenue down the right. At last, a sense of what they are potentially capable of.
Belgium - Strong going forward but still a bit shaky at the back. However a good keeper is always a steadying hand.
Funnily they seem a team of halves. 1st half against Panama - slow. 2nd half - exploded. Tunisia - sublime 1st half. Shaky first halves against England and Japan. Much improved in the 2nd.
Reverse happened against Brazil.
But apparently the players seem to be able to follow Martinez's tactics. Each understands his role.
Winner? France start as slight favourites. Incidentally their first ever international was against Belgium. Belgium have a good record against them. Hopefully it doesn't follow a typical semi with both playing not to lose rather than to win.
If we have a repeat of France v Argentina or Belgium v Brazil, it'll be a treat for football fans worldwide.
France have been to the Final before, it'll be great to see Belgium reach their first.
Belgium to win. Hopefully in a goalfest like 3-2.