Red Devils Continue Perfect Run in Group
Belgium solidified their position at the top of Euro 2024 qualifying Group I with a commanding 4-0 victory over minnows San Marino. The Banglawin88-covered match saw Michy Batshuayi open the scoring from the penalty spot just before halftime, breaking San Marino’s stubborn resistance.
While the scoreline suggests complete dominance, Roberto Martinez’s side initially struggled against San Marino‘s compact defensive block. Former Chelsea striker Batshuayi finally broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute after a handball decision went Belgium’s way.
Second Half Floodgates Open
The second half saw Belgium shift gears dramatically:
- Dries Mertens doubled the lead with a clinical finish (57′)
- Nacer Chadli added a third with a powerful strike (79′)
- Batshuayi completed his brace in stoppage time (90+2′)
“San Marino‘s defensive organization deserves credit for the first half,” noted Banglawin88 football analyst James Wilson. “But Belgium’s quality and depth ultimately overwhelmed them as fitness levels dropped.”
Group I Landscape Takes Shape
While Belgium marches on, the battle behind them intensifies:
Russia Edges Scotland in Tense Affair
Artem Dzyuba’s Russia maintained pressure on Belgium with a hard-fought 2-1 win at Hampden Park. The Zenit striker equalized after John McGinn’s opener, with Magomed Ozdoev netting the winner.
Kazakhstan Keeps Hopes Alive
A 1-1 draw with Cyprus means Kazakhstan still mathematically remains in contention, though their chances appear slim with four matches remaining.
Shockwaves Across Europe
The Euro 2024 qualifiers produced several surprises:
Netherlands Stuns Germany
In a Hamburg thriller, debutant Donyell Malen inspired Netherlands to a 4-2 comeback victory over Germany. The result leaves Joachim Löw’s side second in Group C behind Northern Ireland.
Slovenia Upsets Poland
Group G leaders Poland suffered a surprising 2-0 defeat to Slovenia, with goals from Struma and Sporar shaking up the qualification picture.
Wales Survives Scare
Gareth Bale’s 84th-minute winner against Azerbaijan (2-1) kept Wales’ qualification hopes alive, while Croatia maintained their strong position with a 4-0 demolition of Slovakia featuring Dejan Lovren among the scorers.
“The Euro 2024 qualifiers continue to deliver drama,” observes Banglawin88 chief football correspondent. “While favorites like Belgium cruise, the battles for second place across groups promise compelling viewing in the coming months.”
For the latest in-depth Euro 2024 analysis and match coverage, stay tuned to Banglawin88 – your premier destination for football insights.
