Belgium vs. Algeria, 2014 World Cup: Red Devils complete comeback

Two goals late in the second half from two substitutes sealed the 2-1 victory for Belgium, but after this match Marc Wilmots will almost certainly be reassessing his tactics.

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Algeria defended excellently, though didn’t offer much going forward. However, all it took was one swift counter for them to take advantage of Belgium’s weakness at the back, with makeshift left-back Jan Vertonghen bundling Sofiane Feghouli over in the box midway through the first half. Feghouli stepped up to convert the ensuing spot-kick, and Les Fennecs incredibly found themselves ahead.

They managed to keep their lead to the break, with their disciplined, deep defending proving enough to keep Belgium at bay. The Red Devils did finally manage to break through the Algerian ranks on the stroke of halftime when Eden Hazard threaded Nacer Chadli through on goal, though his shot was tame and comfortably held by M’Bolhi at the near post.

The turn and pass by Eden Hazard on this goal was incredible.

He’s 6’4”, or 7’0” with the afro.

Algeria took a stunning 1-0 lead over Belgium following a terrible foul and naturally fans are excited. This includes the greatest Algerian fan, Fez Man.

We’re still not sure if it should be pronounced “Fez Man” or Fezman, rhyming with “Stedman.” Either way he’s totally awesome and deserves a remix.

Awful start, Belgium.

Belgium are one of the tournament dark horses thanks to a young and talented roster than includes the likes of Eden Hazard, Vincent Kompany and Romelu Lukaku. It’s almost not fair how good this team could be, but now it’s time for them to put it all together and prove it. Opening their campaign against Algeria should help them get off to a strong start, but training injuries to Kevin de Bruyne and Divock Origi have both players in doubt for the match.

Match Date/Time: 1 p.m. local, 12 p.m. ET

They meet Algeria in their opening group game, in what should be a much more difficult match than you may expect. Les Fennecs have flown under the radar heading into this tournament, and expectations outside of Algeria are of another fairly dour group stage exit. But make no mistake, Vahid Halilhodžić has a team with plenty of young talent too. Underestimate them at your peril.

Belgium (4-2-3-1): Thibaut Courtois; Jan Vertonghen, Thomas Vermaelen, Vincent Kompany, Toby Alderweireld; Marouane Fellaini, Axel Witsel; Eden Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne, Kevin Mirallas; Romelu Lukaku.