JAKARTA - Slovakia scored a surprise 1-0 win over Belgium in the Euro 2024 group match which took place in Frankfurt, Monday 17 June, at the Frankfurt Arena Stadium, Frankfurt. This result was obtained after two goals scored by Romelu Lukaku for Belgium were ruled out by VAR for off-side and handball violations in the process.
Throughout the Belgian match, the match took place. But Slovakia's excellent defensive performance thwarted dozens of chances from Lukaku cs.
On the other hand, in the 7th minute, Slovakia took the lead after taking advantage of Belgian defense errors. Jeremy Doku lost the ball in his own defensive area, giving Juraj Kucka the opportunity to open fire. Belgian goalkeeper Koen Casteels could only parry the ball, which Ivan Schranz struck into a goal. This initial advantage gave Slovakia a significant morale boost.
Belgium, continues to intensify attacks to catch up since then. Romelu Lukaku twice thought he had equalized for Belgium. However, the two goals were ruled out by VAR. The first goal was ruled out for offside, while the second goal was canceled due to a handball conducted by Lois Openda in the process of an attack. This VAR decision drew controversy and protests from the Belgian team and their supporters at the stadium.
Throughout the Belgian match, which controlled most of the matches, struggled to score despite having several golden chances. Kevin De Bruyne, who was the motor of the Belgian attack, repeatedly tried to penetrate Slovakia's defense but always failed in front of goalkeeper Martin Dubravka who performed brilliantly. Dubravka made several important saves, including from Leandro Trossard's long-range shot.
Slovakia defended with high discipline and determination. Their back line, led by Stanislav Lobotka and Milan Skriniar, managed to dispel attacks after the Belgian attack. In the final minutes of the match, Slovakia even almost doubled the lead through David Strelec, but his efforts failed to bear fruit.
In extra time, Belgium had their last chance through Kevin De Bruyne, but his shot was blocked by a Slovakian defender. The game closed with Slovakia's victory, which fought hard to defend their lead until the final whistle sounded.
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This victory is one of the biggest for Slovakia since beating Italy at the 2010 World Cup. On the other hand, this defeat is a hard slap for Belgium which is expected to advance well in this tournament. Belgium coach, Domenico Tedesco, must immediately find a solution so that his team can rise in the next match.
This match shows how important VAR technology is in modern football, although it still causes controversy. Slovakia took advantage of their chances well and maintained their lead with high discipline, while Belgium had to evaluate their performances and find ways to maximize the opportunities they had in the next game.
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