This is the first competitive match between the two countries in which their inaugural meeting in 2002 ended on a goalless stalemate. A year later Belgium ran out 3-1 winners in a friendly. Emile Mpenza scoring twice. Many things has changed for Belgium as they return to the world stage after a 12-year absence with much hype and expectation. The Red Devils are many
people's dark horses for World Cup glory this summer having rebuilt their infrastructure and footballing reputation. Their deep-rooted rebuilding programme has helped them unearth talents such as Vincent Kompany, Eden Hazard and Romelu Lukaku, household names to a Premier League audience. Yet in truth their whole squad play for high profile clubs across Europe's elite leagues. The absence of injured Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke
places a huge responsibility on the 21-year-old shoulders
of Lukaku.
Belgium may be the favourites in Group H, but the improving North Africans are tipped by many to qualify for the knockout stage at the fourth time of asking. Their hopes
this time are have been boosted by an influx of France-born players with Algerian parents or ancestry. Valencia midfielder Sofiane Feghouli is one such player expected to help take Algeria to the next level.
The Desert Foxes' initial aim is to score within 35 minutes; failure to do so would see them at least equal an unwanted record of 517 minutes World Cup without a goal.
Belgium has been on top form and a long winning streak and will be look forward to brush the Desert Foxes aside.
Verdict: Belgium wins with -1 handicap
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