Portugal’s title defense ended in the round of 16 after suffering a 1-0 defeat by Belgium at Spain’s La Cartuja stadium in Seville on Sunday. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal looked the better side with more chances, but Thorgan Hazard’s rocket hit in the first half brought Belgium to the Euro 2020 quarter-finals.
It was the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s breathtaking run at Euro 2020. The Juventus star put aside speculation about his club’s future to put on an excellent show, scoring 5 goals and surpassing Michel Platini’s goal record at the Euro in his 5th and What could? be the last appearance at the international continental tournament.
Euro 2020: Round of 16 Belgium 1-0 Portugal highlights
On Sunday, however, Cristiano Ronaldo couldn’t bother Thibaut Courtois, who had to work hard from Portugal. Portugal had 24 tries compared to Belgium’s 6. They had 5 shots on target but couldn’t even score one.
Respect. Romelu Lukaku Cristiano Ronaldo.# EURO2020 pic.twitter.com/Q7JcO21WSm
– UEFA EURO 2020 (@ EURO2020) June 27, 2021
Diogo Jota had two chances on both sides at halftime, but couldn’t use them. Ruben Dias had the best chance to equalize in the second half but headed a Renato Sanches cross straight into Courtois. Raphael Gurreriro hit the woodwork when Portugal failed to seal a draw in regular time and brought it into overtime.
On the other hand, Belgium, who refused to show themselves, took the lead in the first half with a stunning goal from Thorgan Hazard.
Thorgan Hazard’s breathtaking hit
After a quick passing game, Hazard found enough space to shoot home from 20 meters and score against the course of the game in the 42nd minute.
Thorgan Hazard takes the applause after inspiring Belgium to the last 8 @Heineken | #EUROSOTM | # EURO2020 pic.twitter.com/yT97ERdmUX
– UEFA EURO 2020 (@ EURO2020) June 27, 2021
Belgian Kevin De Bruyne, recently returned from a facial injury, may be doubtful, however, as he hobbled three minutes in the second half after an ankle injury just before the break. There were concerns for captain Eden Hazard, calling for a substitution towards the end of the game after he appeared to have pulled a muscle.
Belgium, who were strong at the back, face Italy in the quarter-finals. Roberto Manicini’s men have been undefeated in their last 31 games but the Red Devils can upset them in an expected blockbuster of the last 8 games.
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