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Strong second half pushes Belgium past Ireland

 

romelu-lukaku1-1404463728-1404808264The Belgians struggled to break down Ireland’s defense in the opening half, but they had no such difficulty during the second 45 minutes and began to pile it on with their talented attack.

Belgium picked up their first win at Euro 2016 on Saturday, after defeating the Irish 2-0 behind an impressive offensive display after the halftime break.

Everton striker Romelu Lukaku gave the Red Devils the lead just three minutes into the second stanza, after a quick counterattack was sparked through Kevin de Bruyne. Lukaku received the ball outside the penalty area, before placing his shot into the bottom left corner.

Ireland was undone a second time just beyond the hour mark, when Axel Witsel comfortably finished his close-range effort beyond goalkeeper Darren Randolph.

Belgium added a third in the 70th minute after another counterattack proved to be the downfall for the Irish. Eden Hazard played provider for the Red Devils when he led the break and played the ball into Lukaku, who netted his second of the day.

Group E play will close out on June 22, as Belgium meets Sweden and Ireland faces group leaders Italy.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Belgium’s attack needed a spark after their opening loss to Italy, and Romelu Lukaku‘s comfortable finishing proved just how dangerous Belgium can be when they’re firing on all cylinders.

MOMENT OF THE MATCH

Ireland held strong for much of the first half, however, and early second-half turnover sparked Belgium’s first goal. From there, the Irish really didn’t stand a chance.

MATCH TO FORGET

Three goals in 22 minutes put a damper on the afternoon for the Irish, and goalkeeper Darren Randolph will be left upset after facing endless pressure on Saturday.

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