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NIZHNY NOVGOROD. — Eden Hazard leads his team into today’s World Cup quarter-final match against Brazil on a stage built to showcase his talent but whether Belgium get the full benefit of his mercurial ability is to be seen. The match kicks-off at 8pm.
Hazard is undoubtedly one of the stars of the tournament in Russia and at 27-years-old, wearing the captain’s armband, at the peak of his powers.
But there is always a nagging doubt that when the going gets tough, the attacking midfielder might once again prove anonymous.
“Ice baths, massages, he doesn’t really do all that stuff,” team mate Marouane Fellaini in a recent TV documentary over Hazard.
Michy Batshuayi told of his amazement when Hazard went to the Chelsea gym for the first time — four years after he first signed for the club.
“I told him recently that he must thank God for the talent he has been given. He answered, ‘Maybe I should thank him a little’,” recalled former club mate Demba Ba.
It all comes easy to Hazard, rarely bothered by the pressure and expectation. That supposed indifference was often a cause of irritation for managers like Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte.
But Belgium see what he is capable of and have placed their faith firmly in him.
“He’s a not a natural leader like Kompany but rather a leader who shows through example on the field,” fullback Thomas Meunier said last month.
“He’s got extraordinary qualities, does things other players cannot. And you don’t just run him over. He’s very strong on his feet so it’s difficult to take the ball off him. I think he’s the complete player.”
Ominously for Brazil, his team mates believe Hazard is in the form of his life and ready to deliver.
“I’ve known him for years and the way he has trained and played over the last weeks has been exceptional,” said goalkeeper Thibault Courtois, who is also at Chelsea, this week. “I think he can reach another level.” Meanwhile, Belgium coach Roberto Martinez has admitted he has no secrets as he plots to end Brazil’s bid for a record-extending sixth Soccer World Cup ahead of their “dream” quarter-final in Kazan tonight.
But the nation’s “Golden Generation” have been reminded that the match against the favourites could represent the last chance for them to shine on the world stage. — Reuters.
Online Reporter