Croatia vs. Morocco, Germany vs. Japan, Spain vs. Costa Rica, Belgium vs. Canada

Groups E and F get underway on Wednesday as Spain, Germany and Belgium play their first matches of the tournament. Spain and Germany were heavy favorites to advance out of Group E, but the Germans didn’t do their part early Wednesday, losing to Japan in stunning fashion. Belgium, meanwhile, takes on Canada in the Canadians’ first World Cup game since 1986.

Spain vs. Costa Rica

11 a.m. ET Wednesday, Fox

This is a game that’s going to be played primarily in Costa Rica’s half of the field and it’s not an exaggeration to say that Spain could have 75% of the possession. It’s going to be all about how Spain breaks down a Costa Rica team that will be content to put all 11 outfield players behind the ball and hit on the counter and on set pieces whenever possible. Under 2.5 goals at +115 feels worth it.

Belgium vs. Canada

2 p.m. ET Wednesday, Fox

Belgium will be without Romelu Lukaku after he was ruled out for the start of the tournament. But there’s still plenty of midfield and attacking talent in the side and Belgium has the best player in the tournament in Kevin De Bruyne. It won’t be surprising if Canada gets a result here, but we’ll take the favorites.

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