Euro 2024: Belgium off the mark in Group E
Belgium 2 - 0 Romania
Kevin De Bruyne led Belgium to a crucial Euro 2024 victory with an exceptional performance in a thrilling match against Romania in Cologne.
Belgium, under pressure in Group E after losing their first game to Slovakia, delivered an outstanding attacking display, proving why they are among the favourites in Germany.
In a vibrant and colourful atmosphere, Youri Tielemans' low shot put Belgium ahead just 73 seconds into the game, setting the stage for numerous scoring opportunities.
Belgium and De Bruyne were unstoppable. The Manchester City midfielder secured the victory with a close-range goal after 79 minutes, leaving Group E finely balanced with all four teams on three points each.
Romelu Lukaku was unlucky to have a goal disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee, who ruled him offside from De Bruyne’s perfect pass.
After the disappointing defeat to Slovakia, Belgium responded impressively in a lively and action-packed encounter on Saturday.
Tielemans' early goal calmed any nerves, and Belgium dominated a Romanian side that, while occasionally threatening, squandered their few chances.
Lukaku, frustrated once again by VAR, was supported by De Bruyne, who demonstrated the world-class form Belgium needed. Despite his bad luck with disallowed goals, he showed promising signs and will feel confident about scoring soon.
De Bruyne orchestrated Belgium's play, creating opportunities for others and taking his own shots, enjoying every moment of a match that favoured creative players. In this mood, few can match his brilliance. One dazzling solo run saw him slice through Romania’s defence, though Dodi Lukebakio failed to capitalise.
Belgium faced a must-win situation, and this performance will boost their self-belief. They now have a chance to secure a place in the last 16 with a win against Ukraine on Wednesday.
Romania still have hope.
Their fans created a deafening atmosphere and a sea of yellow support in Cologne, buoyed by their impressive opening win against Ukraine.
Edward Iordanescu’s team were outplayed on Saturday but showed enough to keep their fans optimistic, earning a warm ovation after the final whistle.
Romania had opportunities to equalise, with Belgium keeper Koen Casteels making a spectacular save from Andrei Burca's header shortly after Tielemans' opener.
The support reflected the strong unity between players and fans. That gives them genuine hope of reaching the last 16 ahead of their final game against Slovakia.
Casteels also denied Dennis Man as he raced towards goal, a pivotal moment in the match. Although Romania cannot complain about the result, their Euro 2024 campaign remains promising.
