MARTINEZ HITS OUT AT ‘FAKE NEWS’

Belgium boss Roberto Martinez insists reports of a squad bust-up following the defeat to Morocco are “fake news” as his side prepare for their final World Cup group game against Croatia today.

The Red Devils have endured a difficult start to the tournament, with an unconvincing 1-0 win over Canada followed by a 2-0 humbling at the hands of Morocco four days later.

Belgium, ranked second in Fifa rankings, sit third in Group F and will have to overcome group leaders Croatia in their last match if they are to advance to the last 16.

Martinez wants people to get behind “the best generation” of players to pull on a Belgium shirt rather than find negative news.

He said: “There is more desire to find negative news around this team rather than get this nation together, support this team and enjoy the talent of the best generation that we have ever had in Belgian football.”

Morocco coach Walid Regragui will not make the mistake of playing for a draw against Canada as they look to make it out of the group stage for the first time in more than 35 years.

The Atlas Lions stand on the verge of reaching the knockout rounds for only the second time in the country’s history, last doing so in 1986.

Canada have only pride left to play for following a 4-1 defeat to Croatia after being edged out by Belgium in their first match.

Spain coach Luis Enrique will not take any risks against Japan with progress to the knockout stage still in the balance.

Although the 2010 champions need only a point to qualify, all four nations have a chance of making the last 16 and, after Germany’s shock defeat to the Asian nation, nothing can be ruled out. He said: “Don’t write Costa Rica off, they can win against Germany. Any of the four nations can still go through and that is very telling.”

France’s Stephanie Frappart will make history as the first woman to take charge of a match at the men’s tournament when she oversees the clash between Costa Rica and Germany. Germany must win the Group E match to stay in contention for the knockout stages, while Costa Rica can guarantee a last-16 spot with victory.