Belgium Finish Pre-World Cup Friendlies on a High Note

(goal.com)

Brussels, Belgium - Despite being delayed due to an intense storm, Belgium were able to finish their final tune-up match against Tunisia as they prepare for the World Cup.  Though the scoreline finished 1-0 in favor of the Belgian side, the match was much more one-sided than the scoreline would show.
From the opening minutes of the match, Belgium had the Tunisians on their heals.  Tunisia's most threatening offensive move in the entire match was a shot on goal in the 13th minute, despite the shot being saved by 21 year old Belgian keeper Thibaut Courtois.

The Belgians maintained pressure through the entire match with twelve shots, five of which were on target. The first break through almost came in the 81st minute after a free kick struck by Arsenal's Jan Vertonghen found the target, but was barely tipped by the Tunisian keeper.

This shot began a series of Belgian attacks for the next 10 minutes, which ultimately ended with a goal in the 89th minute.  The goal by Dries Mertens came after a beautiful sequence of passing by the entire Belgian midfield.

Though this victory over Tunisia was not a huge victory, the extension of their win-streak to three straight matches will surely be a huge confidence boost as they head to Brazil.  Belgium was one of a small group of teams to win all three of their Pre-World Cup friendlies.

Belgium play their first match of the World Cup against Russia on Tuesday, June 17.