1. Reasonable adjustments by Tedesco

Belgium caused a big disappointment on the opening day of EURO 2024 with a 0-1 loss to Slovakia. Therefore, the pressure was heavy on the shoulders of coach Domenico Tedesco in the second match of Group E. In that context, the Italian strategist showed his talent for rotating personnel and adapting appropriately.

Tedesco made 3 important changes to the starting lineup in the Romania match. Midfielder Youri Tielemans started from the start in the midfield; At the same time, Dodi Lukebakio replaced Leandro Trossard in attack. Veteran Jan Vertonghen returned to defense to replace Zeno Debast.

All three changes of Coach Tedesco were effective. Vertonghen provides necessary experience, helping the Belgian defense stay focused and calm in the face of turbulence.

Tielemans shined when he scored the opening goal for Belgium after only 73 seconds of the ball rolling. The former Leicester City star helped Belgium’s midfield increase ball control and dominate the match against Romania.

Meanwhile, Lukebakio helps the Belgian attack become more flexible and diverse in attacking arrangements. Lukebakio’s acceleration situations caused difficulties and stirred up the Romanian defense. Lukebakio had 2 successful passes, bringing back 2 key passes for his teammates.

2. Unlucky like Lukaku

The 31-year-old star has not had any goals after two matches in the group stage of EURO 2024. Romelu Lukaku showed ungainliness in front of Slovakia’s goal. That scenario repeated itself when Belgium faced Romania.

Lukaku launched a total of 5 shots, giving 1 assist and 2 key passes to his teammates. The former Man United star tried his best but luck turned his back on him time and time again.

The most unfortunate situation was the situation in the 63rd minute. Starting from Kevin de Bruyne’s delicate pass, Lukaku escaped and finished the ball into Romania’s net. Unfortunately, VAR stepped in and did not recognize the goal when Lukaku fell into an offside position.

In the 89th minute, Lukaku was once again very close to scoring. However, his shot could not beat goalkeeper Florin Nita’s reflexes. The plus point for Lukaku was the clearing that helped Youri Tielemans open the score.

3. Conductor De Bruyne

When Belgium was in trouble, De Bruyne spoke up. Leaving behind the disappointing match against Slovakia, De Bruyne played sublimely against Romania. The 32-year-old midfielder was voted the Best Player of the match.

De Bruyne fired 5 shots, scoring the winning goal 2-0; created 3 key passes, had 3 successful passes, won 11 duels….

De Bruyne transformed the soul of the Belgian midfield with his tactical vision and impressive technical qualities.

4. Romania ‘shuts down’

In contrast to the sublime match against Ukraine, Romania ‘forgot’ its sharpness in the encounter with Belgium. Names like Nicolae Claudiu Stanciu, Razvan Marin, Denis Dragus cannot bring a difference to the home team.

The most unfortunate thing to mention is Dennis Man’s squandered opportunity. In the 68th minute, starting from Onana’s mistake, Dennis Man escaped to face the Belgian goal. Unfortunately, Man’s shot was blocked by goalkeeper Casteels.

In the context of being 0-1 ahead, if Man finishes sharply and scores for Romania, the game could reverse in a completely different scenario.

5. The situation is as tense as a string

After the first two matches, the situation in Group E is very difficult to predict. All four teams, Belgium, Slovakia, Romania and Ukraine, have 3 points. In the final match, Belgium faces Ukraine, while Slovakia has a decisive match with Romania.

Belgium and Romania have a high chance of winning tickets to go straight to the round of 16 when they own a +1 goal difference. As long as they do not lose in the final match, the two teams will continue.