World Cup 2018, France vs Belgium: Key Battles within 'The Battle'

#2 Eden Hazard vs Benjamin Pavard

Eden Hazard was a constant thorn in Brazil’s side. Hazard also got his hands on a unique record: he completed 10 take-ons out of 10, which was the most in a World Cup game since 1966. Fagner, the Brazil right-back, had the longest 90 minutes of his career as Hazard turned him inside and out with devastating efficiency.

Pavard has been solid for France and provides an outlet for France when they attack. His attacking instincts earned him a spectacular goal against Argentina in the Round of 16. On Tuesday, Pavard will face his toughest assignment when he goes up against Hazard.

Fagner afforded a lot of space to Hazard and the latter grabbed it with both hands. It is imperative that Pavard does not afford space to Hazard. Fagner made the mistake of committing too early and it is important for France that Pavard doesn’t do the same. Hazard will try drawing fouls to rattle the defenders and throw them out of gear. Pavard needs to guard against this tactic while being strong defensively.

If Hazard is as successful as he was against Brazil, he would run rings around the French defence. For France to harbour any hopes of going through, Pavard needs to bring his A-game to the table and neutralise the ‘Hazard’ threat.