France vs Belgium: 6 key players to watch out for from both sides

Eden Hazard

Training Session of Belgium - World Cup 2018

Hazard has had a mixed world cup so far. He has been impressive but has not hit full gear yet. He has run a total of 36.7 Kilometres so far, has 13 attempts on goal, with 5 of them on target and has scored 2 goals. He has attempted 157 passes, completing 126 of them. He attempted 11 deliveries into the penalty area and has 11 dribbles into the penalty area, the highest in both teams.

He also attempted 6 crosses and recovered the ball 8 times. His speed and trickery have been a bane for the opposition so far, but he will believe that he can touch an even higher level. Pavard and Varane, even with their confidence, will not be looking forward to this encounter, because, Hazard is dangerous and he has the players around him to make him better.

Romelu Lukaku

Contrary to France’s focal point of attack Oliver Giroud, who is yet to score a goal, Lukaku has been in terrific form so far. His display of speed, precision and power will please Jose Mourinho, his manager at Manchester United, while United fans will be overjoyed at his performance.

Even though his first touch is still a tad loose, Lukaku has gone from strength to strength as the tournament progressed. He has combined pace with brawniness. Even though he holds the ball exceedingly well, he is not a typical burly, static centre-forward; his work ethic and willingness to run for the team makes him an invaluable part of Roberto Martinez’s tactics.

He also puts his team before personal glory, as evident in his dummy for Chadli's winning goal against Japan, or his assist for De Bruyne’s goal against Brazil. He is the tip of the Belgian spear and he will test Varane's resolve.

In the end, it takes more than just 6 players to win a game of football. It takes astute planning from the coach, the assistants, it takes footballers playing out of their skins, it takes clever tactical decisions and emergency plan Bs.

Along with all that, it requires heart and desire. Tuesday will be a test of resolve and steel of two deserving foes in a battle of wits and it remains to be seen which of these 12 warriors rise above the rest and take their team one step closer to eternal glory.

Who among these 12 players will be most influential in the game? Comment and let us know