Highly fancied by many to finally fulfill their incredible potential in Russia, Belgium kick off their World Cup with a game against one of the weakest teams in the tournament.
Panama are playing in the for the first time and just making it there is a fantastic achievement, but their dream faces a stern dose of reality on Monday afternoon and Belgium will be confident of recording a straight-forward win.
Latest odds
In this first round of matches Belgium are one of the shortest priced teams to win, with bet365 offering them at 9/50 (1.18).
Logically, that would also make Panama one of the biggest priced sides and the Central Americans are available at 20/1 (21.00).
GettyWe have already seen a side debuting at the tournament claim a memorable draw with Iceland's 1-1 against Argentina, and what would be another historic stalemate is offered at 13/2 (7.50).
Team news
Belgium have defenders Thomas Vermaelen and Vincent Kompany missing for the game, although Spurs defensive duo Jan Vertonghen and Toby Aldeweireld are both likely to start.
Preview
Few squads at the tournament can match Belgium for genuine talent. Throughout their team, there are players of immense quality and if they get into their stride they could be tough to stop.
An opening game against Panama means they should hit the ground running and it is hard to envisage anything other than a comfortable victory for Roberto Martinez's men, who were in excellent form in the run-up to the tournament.
Tips and predictions
This year in friendly matches Belgium have beaten Saudi Arabia 4-1, Egypt 3-0 and most recently Costa Rica 4-1.
Panama are arguably at the same level or indeed below all of those teams, and the price of 11/8 (2.38) for Belgium to win with a -2 handicap looks tempting.
Other options to consider for the game are Belgium to win both halves at 6/5 (2.20), while they can also be backed at 4/5 (1.80) to score in both halves which looks like a nailed on selection.
Prices correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.
Belgium to win with -2 handicap at 11/8 (2.38) for a 2.5pt stake with bet365