“There is nothing to explain, this is the FIFA classification. In view of the performance of the Belgian team over the last few months, so that is obvious. Nothing to say about it. When you see the individuals that make up the national team of Belgium, sincerely I think that they can be in the last four of this World Cup,” Maaloul said at the pre-match press conference, when asked to explain why he considers Belgium to be a stronger side than England.

England are 12th in the FIFA ranking, while Belgium rank as high as third.

Tunisia, drawn in Group G alongside Panama, Belgium and England, will play its first game at the World Cup on Monday against England in Volgograd.