Driving Naari Programme launched in Chandigarh
Prospects
Like four years ago in Brazil, Belgium will once again arrive on the world stage in Russia replete with talent who ply their trade in top leagues across Europe. They showed what they are capable of during World Cup qualification. While few doubt their attacking prowess, the jury is still out on their defensive organisation. A groin injury to captain and central defender Vincent Kompany, picked up during the Portugal friendly, is a worrying news for the coach. “You could feel that when he came off we were all very much worried,” coach Roberto Martinez said. The coach has still named the veteran defender in the squad, hoping he would recover in two weeks.
Belgium will be expected to top Group G but will need a solid backline to ensure the campaign does not end up as another missed opportunity
World Cup record
Previous appearances: 12 (first in 1930)
Last 3: Quarterfinals in 2014; Did not qualify in 2010, 2006
Best result: Semifinals in 1986
Belgium have appeared in 12 World Cups, with their qualification for the 2014 edition in Brazil coming after a gap of 12 years. The Red Devils lost to Argentina in the quarterfinals in Brazil and their best performance remains their semifinal appearance in 1986 when they fell to the eventual champions, also Argentina
Injury concern Belgium’s head coach Roberto Martinez speaks with Vincent Kompany who was substituted due to a groin injury midway through the friendly against Portugal in Brussels on Saturday.
