Belgium – Romania was among the most disputed games at the UEFA EURO 2024. Belgium came after surprisingly losing to Slovakia in the opening game at this championship, 1-0, while Romania came after crushing Ukraine 3-0.
The swift goal of Belgium influenced the first half of the match played in Cologne. Belgium scored through Tielemans in 2′ after a pass from Lukaku, and Niță, the Romanian hero-goalkeeper, could not save the shot from 16 meters.
The quick goal made Belgium regain confidence after losing their first game at the Championship against Slovakia. The Belgian players had more chances to score, but Niță kept the result from min 2. On the other hand, Romania had an excellent chance to equalize through Drăgușin, but the Belgian goalkeeper saved the header.
Romania had more opportunities after the half-break. The second half saw a rapid opportunity for Man to score, but Casteels saved. Yet, Lukaku scored a second goal in 62′, but he was offside, and the Belgian striker had his third goal cancelled after a VAR review.
Hagi and Olaru entered in 67′, and immediately after that, Man had another tremendous opportunity to equalize, but the Belgian goalkeeper saved his shot.
Unfortunately for Romania, De Bruyne scored in 80′, confirming the value of this team, which is ranked third in the world after Argentina and France.
Alibec, who entered after the break, had a huge opportunity to score in 86′; his shot was too weak, and a Belgian defender deflected the ball right before entering the goal.
Following this match, all teams in Group E have 3 points, which makes the last games in the group decisive. Romania is to play against Slovakia, while Belgium plays against Ukraine.
Starting Lineups
ROMANIA:
- Niță (GK), 2. Rațiu, 3. Drăgușin, 6. M. Marin, 11. Bancu, 13. Mihăilă, 15. Burcă, 18. R. Marin, 19. Drăguș, 20. Man, 21. Stanciu (Captain)
BELGIUM: Casteels (GK) – Castagne, Faes, Vertonghen, Doku – Tielemans, Onana – Theate, De Bruyne, Lukebakio – Lukaku
Key Moments:
- 2′: Tielemans scores for Belgium (Assist by Lukaku)
- 62′: Lukaku’s goal cancelled by VAR
- 80′: De Bruyne scores for Belgium
- 86′: Alibec’s shot deflected by Belgian defender
The next matches in Group E will determine which teams advance, making them crucial encounters for all involved.
4o
