The Entry Of De Bruyne In The Second Half And Decisive Victory, Proof Of The Wealth Of The Stock Of Great Belgian Players

JAKARTA - The introduction of Kevin De Bruyne in the second half not only turned beleaguered Belgium into a winner against Denmark in Thursday night's Group B clash, but also underlined the wealth of great players that have made Belgium favorites to win.

De Bruyne missed defending top-ranked Belgium in last weekend's opener as he was recovering from a facial fracture when his team-mates beat Russia.

Returning to the field Thursday, he was not started, but came on after the break when his side trailed 1-0 to remind the world of the brilliance of his talent.

De Bruyne set up one goal and scored the other himself a resounding 2-1 comeback that sealed Belgium's place in the next round.

Stunning 😍Kevin De Bruyne gives Belgium the lead!#EURO2020 pic.twitter.com/j943Rt1V5H

— UEFA EURO 2020 (@EURO2020) June 17, 2021

Exploring the source of his talent, coach Roberto Martinez also included Eden Hazard and Axel Witsel as substitutes to finish this match.

All three are still not fully fit with De Bruyne out for nearly three weeks, Hazard having a poor season at Real Madrid and Witsel following a horrific Achilles tendon injury that nearly ruled him out of the tournament.