Belgium debuts with victory in the Nations League with two goals from De Bruyne
Manchester City star leads 3-1 win over Israel; match takes place at Hungarian stadium behind closed doors for security reasons
Belgium made a winning start to the 2024/25 Nations League . The Belgian national team beat Israel 3-1 this Friday , in a game valid for the first round of Group 2, at the Nagyerdei Stadium, in Debrecen, Hungary. Midfielder De Bruyne was the star of the match, with two goals scored.
This match was held in Hungary for security reasons . The Belgian football federation also decided to close the stadium for fear of protests against the conflict between Israel and Hamas. In addition, cities in Belgium refused to host the match.
Belgium opened the scoring in the 21st minute of the first half, with De Bruyne. He received a pass from winger Doku, who made the move on the left, and finished first time, with a lob.
Israel equalized in the 36th minute, with an own goal by defender Castagne. He tried to head the ball away from a cross, close to the six-yard box, but ended up deflecting it into his own goal.
Midfielder Tielamans scored Belgium’s second goal in the first few minutes of the second half, taking advantage of a rebound in the penalty area, following an assist from striker Openda. A powerful shot with his right foot.
And De Bruyne extended the lead in the seventh minute, converting a penalty kick. Interestingly, Belgium had another penalty in their favor practically immediately after, but Openda wasted the chance, shooting into the middle of the goal, and goalkeeper Gerafi saved.
Israel still scored a goal in the match’s injury time, with striker David, but the goal was disallowed for offside.
