Belgium v Japan Betting Tips, Predictions and Previews

Rostov Arena - World Cup Round of 16

Belgium take on Japan in the round of last 16 in Russia, with Roberto Martinez's team as one of just three sides to win all three of their games so far.

Past Meetings

Belgium beat Japan in a friendly in November 2017, with a 1-0 win secured by Romelu Lukaku's goal.

Japan have only beaten Belgium once in their five meetings with them.

Team News

Belgium rested a number of players in their win over England, and the majority of those should come back in for his game. Jan Vertongen, Toby Alderweireld, Axel Witsel, Eden Hazard, Dries Mertens and Lukaku should all start - and Vincent Kompany could also start his first game of the tournament.

Japan have no injury issues ahead of this game, but key man Takashi Inui should return to the starting XI after being rested against Poland.

Belgium v Japan Preview and Predictions

Belgium are strong favourites in this game, given their star studded line up and excellent unbeaten start to the tournament so far. Martinez has gelled his side, a frequent criticism of the side in previous competitions, and they look a real option to win it - but they will need to get past a stubborn Japanese side first.

Japan squeezed through to the knockout stages, despite losing their final game to Poland, but they should not pose too much of a threat to Martinez's side.

Belgium are at 5/2 to win this game, and they should do that with something to spare - as they look to continue their excellent progress in tournament. Belgium have scored nine goals so far, conceding just two, and they should beat Japan with a clear advantage - Belgium to win and over 2.5 total goals scored is at 6/5.

Recommended Bets

Belgium to win 3-0 at 17/2

Belgium are firing on all cylinders at the minute - and despite having a fairly solid tournament - Japan do not have the tools to make any serious inroads against them. Martinez's will want his side to continue their positive momentum, and a strong result here will do just that.

Romelu Lukaku to score first at 13/5

Lukaku is second in the goal scoring charts in Russia so far, with four goals, and he will be restored after resting a minor ankle problem for the England game. He leads the line for Belgium, and with Hazard and Mertens alongside him, he should have plenty of chances.