00:00Belgium continued their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in perfect fashion,
00:05with a confident 2-0 victory over Croatia, in an international friendly at the H&K Rijeka Stadium.
00:12The match brought together two experienced European sides looking to build momentum ahead
00:16of the global tournament, and it was Belgium who left the field with greater confidence
00:21after a disciplined and clinical display. The contest attracted significant attention,
00:26as both nations are expected to play important roles at the World Cup.
00:30Croatia, led by their experienced core, wanted to prove they remain a force on the international
00:36stage, while Belgium aimed to show that their new generation can blend successfully with
00:41established stars. The opening stages of the match were evenly balanced, with both teams focusing on
00:47controlling possession and limiting mistakes. Croatia looked comfortable on the ball, using the vision
00:53and experience of Luka Modric to dictate the tempo from midfield. Belgium, meanwhile, relied on quick
00:59transitions and the pace of their attacking players to create openings. Neither side was willing to
01:04take unnecessary risks during the early exchanges. Croatia attempted to stretch the Belgian defense
01:10through wide areas, while Belgium looked dangerous whenever they broke forward at speed. The tactical
01:15battle in midfield became one of the key features of the first half. As the first half progressed,
01:21Belgium gradually began to grow into the game. Their pressing forced Croatia into a few uncomfortable
01:27situations, and the visitors eventually found the breakthrough in the 38th minute. A well-worked
01:33attacking move exposed gaps in the Croatian defense, allowing captain Uri Teelmans to finish calmly from
01:39close range. The goal rewarded Belgium's increasing pressure, and gave them a valuable lead before
01:44half-time. For Croatia, conceding just before the break was a setback after an otherwise competitive
01:51opening period. The hosts knew they would need a stronger attacking response in the second half.
01:56Croatia emerged after half-time with greater urgency, and immediately began creating chances.
02:02Modric continued to orchestrate attacks, while the forward line searched for opportunities to test Belgium's defense.
02:09One of Croatia's best chances came when Antti Butemer rose high inside the penalty area, and sent an effort
02:15against the crossbar. The home crowd thought the equalizer had arrived, but luck was not on Croatia's side.
02:22Moments earlier, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois had demonstrated why he remains one of the world's best.
02:28The Belgian shot-stopper reacted brilliantly to deny a dangerous Croatian attempt, preserving his team's lead at a
02:35crucial stage of the match. While Croatia pushed forward, Belgium continued to threaten on the
02:40counterattack. The visitors nearly doubled their advantage when Hans van Aken connected with a corner
02:45kick, only to see his header strike the crossbar. Belgium's attacking players looked increasingly
02:51comfortable as the game entered its final stages. Their movement and direct running force Croatia's
02:57defenders to remain alert, preventing the hosts from committing too many players forward. The match remained
03:03competitive, but Belgium appeared more composed whenever opportunities arose. The biggest storyline
03:09of the evening surrounded Romelu Lukaku. Belgium's all-time leading scorer returned to international
03:15action after a lengthy absence caused by injury concerns and limited playing time at club level.
03:20When Lukaku entered the match late on, supporters were eager to see whether the experienced striker
03:26could make an impact. He did exactly that. Deep into stoppage time, Lukaku broke clear of the
03:32Croatian defence and produced a powerful finish to score Belgium's second goal. The strike not only sealed
03:38the victory but also marked his 90th international goal, further extending his remarkable record for
03:44the national team. His successful return provided one of the most encouraging moments for Belgium ahead
03:50of the World Cup. Although Croatia suffered defeat, there were still encouraging aspects to their
03:55performance. Their midfield control, work rate, and chance creation suggested they remain capable of
04:01competing with top teams. However, finishing remains an area requiring improvement.
04:07For Belgium, the result was extremely positive. Thielmann's delivered as captain,
04:13Courtois provided security and goal, and Lukaku's return added another dimension to the attack.
04:18As both teams continue their World Cup preparations, Belgium will be especially pleased with the balance,
04:25confidence, and efficiency they displayed. A 2-0 victory over a respected opponent offers valuable
04:31momentum and sends a strong message that the Red Devils are ready for the challenges that lie ahead.
04:36Give it back!
04:37A 3-0 victory over a lion's superior
Comments