Belgium have won the first match of the group stage with ease against Russia. Belgium are certainly one of the favourites to win the tournament and they have shown enough promises to prove their potential. Romelu Lukaku’s brace has secured the win for the Belgian Red Devils in the first match of the tournament. Here are the talking points of the match:
1. A Few Surprises In The Starting Lineup Of Belgium
The head coach of Belgium, Roberto Martinez has decided to keep their star player Eden Hazard in the bench for the first match of the tournament. Eden Hazard is still not fully match fit and the coach wants him to give enough time to settle down. Yannick Carassco has been in great form. So, the choice has been easy for Roberto Martinez. On the other hand, he has left out Jason Denayer from the starting lineup. Dedryk Boyata has started as the centre-back in place of him. It has been quite surprising as Denayer has started in 8 matches out of last 10 matches for Belgium. Timothy Castagne has started as the right wing back for the Red Devils in place of Thomas Meunier. So, overall, it has been a surprising starting lineup for Belgium in the tournament opener.
2. No KDB, No Problem?
Kevin De Bruyne has not been in the squad of Belgium in this match. He has been the playmaker of this side for a long time. His absence could have created a huge problem for Belgium. However, this has not been the case in this occasion. The other players have stepped up and they have got an easy win against Russia in the tournament opener. Axel Witsel has also not been in the squad. Leander Dendoncker has played really well in his position throughout the whole match. So, overall it has been a great team performance for Belgium.
3. Romelu Lukaku’s Brace Seal It For Belgium
Romelu Lukaku has taken full opportunity of the lapses of the Russian defense to score the first goal of the match. The Belgian centre-forward has scored another at the back end of the game to seal the win for Belgium. Romelu Lukaku has shown his good form throughout the whole season for Inter Milan. His contribution has been immense in the Serie A title win. Now, he will certainly aim to win this tournament for his National side.
4. Disappointing Start For Russia
It has been a disappointing start of the tournament for Russia. They have played the first match in front of their home crowd. The expectations have been high after their good performance in the World Cup three years back. The playmakers of Russia have failed to make an impact in the game. The defensive unit of Belgium have done a great job to lessen the attacking threats of Artem Dyzuba. The defensive unit of Russia have not been in great shape in the first match of the tournament. They have to improve a lot in the next match against Finland to have a chance to go through to the next stage of the tournament.
