Romelu Lukaku misses a huge chance for Belgium; Slovakia makes them pay

The AS Roma forward blazed his effort straight at the goalkeeper…

Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku missed a great chance to score against Slovakia in their opening game of the UEFA Euro 2024. The AS Roma star was laid off by Kevin De Bruyne, and had the goal gaping in front of him, but contrived to shoot straight at goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.

Coming off the back of an impressive 21-goal campaign with the Giallorossi, big things are expected from Lukaku at the Euros, where the Red Devils are looking to make a mark following a disappointing World Cup campaign in Qatar, 18 months ago.

Just three minutes into their first game at the Germany showpiece, the striker missed a golden chance to put his side in front. Jeremy Doku raced forward unchallenged and squared the ball to De Bruyne, who then laid it off for Lukaku in the center.

Surrounded by two white shirts, the 31-year-old took a touch before unleashing a shot, but it was right at Dubravka, who blocked it. The ball came off him and Lukaku attempted to latch on to it, but the Slovakian goalkeeper was there to collect it before he could make contact.

Four minutes later, the Falcons went in front as Ivan Schranz came into possession from a loose ball by Doku. He squared it to Robert Bozenik, whose initial effort was blocked by Koen Casteels, but the rebound fell for Schranz, who slotted one past the Belgian custodian for 1-0.

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Belgium needs a big performance

At the time of writing, Belgium are still trailing Slovakia by 1-0 and needs a big performance to claw their way back. So far, it’s been a rusty game with neither side being able to cut open clear goalscoring opportunities. More is expected from the Red Devils especially, those who have talents like Lukaku, De Bruyne, and Leandro Trossard in their arsenal.

Also Read: Nicolae Stanciu nets a stunning goal in Romania’s 3-0 win over Ukraine at UEFA EURO 2024