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EDEN Hazard says Belgium have a new level of maturity as they prepare to take on Japan, eyeing a World Cup quarter-final spot against Brazil or Mexico.
A so-called “golden generation” of Belgian stars are running out of time to win a major title but Hazard said they have a chance to make their rich talents count in Russia.
“This is our time to shine, definitely. We have top players and we play as a group, especially after the win over England,” said the Chelsea star. “It’s in our hands, we need to give everything and see what happens.
“I am also a lot stronger than four years ago in Brazil. That was the first major tournament for many of us, knockout matches have a lot to do with experience and can be complicated.
“We have the same level of maturity across the team, which will make a difference this time.”
With Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal and Lionel Messi’s Argentina — both in the same half of the draw — out of the tournament, Hazard wants Belgium to reach the final for the first time in their history.
However, he refused to look past Japan towards a potential quarter-final against Mexico or Brazil.
“We are just focused on this game. Messi and Ronaldo are out, but there are still a lot of players like me who also want to go to the final too, so let’s see,” said Hazard.
Coach Roberto Martinez is set to start with a full-strength side after resting nine players, including Hazard, Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, in the 1-0 win over England that saw Belgium win their group. – Punch
– Jul. 2, 2018 @ 9:59 GMT |
Tags: says Hazard World Cup: It’s Belgium’s time to shine
