BBC SPORT
Kevin De Bruyne inspired Belgium to the first Euro 2024 victory they desperately required with a virtuoso display in a thrilling victory over Romania in Cologne.
Belgium were under pressure in Group E after losing their opening game to Slovakia, but responded with an outstanding attacking display to illustrate exactly why they are rated among the favourites in Germany.
In a magnificent, colourful atmosphere, Youri Tielemans’ low drive put them ahead after 73 seconds, setting the platform for Belgium to create a host of chances.
Romania managed to keep them at bay, the luckless Romelu Lukaku seing a third goal ruled out by the Video Assistant Referee in the tournament when he was adjudged to be offside from De Bruyne’s perfect pass.
Belgium and De Bruyne were not to be denied, and Manchester City’s midfielder made the game safe when he poked home from close range after 79 minutes – leaving the group on a knife-edge as all four teams have three points.
Belgium put themselves under pressure by going down to the defeat against Slovakia, but responded impressively in a frenetic, all-action encounter on Saturday.
Tielemans settled any early nerves as Belgium set about a Romania side that always carried a hint of threat themselves, only to prove wasteful when they had rare chances.
Lukaku was left cursing his luck again after having another goal ruled out by VAR, but the pass by De Bruyne was a clear signal that this world-class operator was approaching the sort of form Belgium require.
De Bruyne was at the heart of everything Belgium did, whether it was pulling the strings for others or having his own shots on target, relishing every moment of a match that always offered creative players the opportunity to flourish.
And there are few better than De Bruyne in this mood, looking at his best from the start, with one wonderful slalom cutting through Romania’s rearguard only for Dodi Lukebakio to fail to take advantage.
Lukaku must wonder when his luck with change in Germany, the striker working tirelessly and once again able to hit the target, only to see the goal ruled out. But he showed good signs and will feel confident he will get off the mark.
There was no margin for error for Belgium going into this game, despite the Euro 2024 format reducing the jeopardy, and this display will send self-belief surging through the camp.
Belgium now have the chance to secure a place in the last 16 when they face Ukraine in their final game on Wednesday.
