In Euro 2024 Group E, Belgium opened their account with an essential two-nil victory against Romania. The game was a much-needed boost for the Belgian Red Devils, following their unexpected upset in their inaugural match against Slovakia. The first goal was scored by Youri Tielemans in the opening 73 seconds, while Kevin De Bruyne rounded off the victory with a second-half goal.
The competition in Group E is cut-throat, with all four teams having three points after playing two games. Belgium is currently leading the scoreboard and is gearing up for their match against Ukraine.
Tielemans started the competition on a high, slotting home the third quickest goal in the history of European Championships. The goal came from a precision hold up play by Romelu Lukaku at the fringe of the penalty area.
Romania was unable to make significant inroads, despite a strong attempt eliciting an excellent save from Belgian goalie Koen Casteels. Belgium pressed in the first half, likely should have had a greater advantage at half time.
There was drama midway through the second half. Lukaku seemingly added the second goal only for the celebrations to be truncated due to a VAR decision that ruled out the goal for offside – this being Lukaku’s third disallowed goal in the competition.
11 minutes from full time, Belgium sealed the win. De Bruyne, the talismanic Manchester City player, seized upon a long pass and bravely slotted home the sealer. This win puts Belgium at the top of Group E and redeems them after the disappointment against Slovakia.