Belgium faced off against the Republic of Ireland in Euro 2016 on Saturday, with the Belgian side running out the winners by a 3-0 scoreline. 

Belgium starter the brighter of the sides and Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph was required to cut-out a dangerous looking cross early on.

Belgium were completely dominating the possession and they came close to breaking the deadlock after 13 minutes when Toby Alderweireld flicked the ball across goal following a corner. Eden Hazard then came close as he blasted an effort just over in the 21st minute.

Just four minutes later Belgium had the ball in the back of the net, but the flag had been raised for an offside in the build-up.

Belgium’s superiority remained evident as Thomas Meunier poked an effort wide just short of the half-hour mark, before Wes Hoolahan was dramatically on hand to header clear off the line in the 42nd minute following a corner.

The sides went into the break level at 0-0, with Ireland remain dogged in defence and Belgian left frustrated.

It didn’t take long into the second-half for Belgium to finally break the deadlock as Romelu Lukaku fired in following a ball from Kevin De Bruyne on the break with 49 minutes gone.

Axel Witsel then had his shot well saved after 55 minutes, before the same player doubled the lead six minutes later as he headed home following a Thomas Meunier cross.

Robbie Brady came close with a rare effort for Ireland in the 63rd minute, but Belgium then claimed their third goal in the 70th minute as Lukaku netted from close range after being played in by Eden Hazard.

Lukaku almost turned provider six minutes later as he set up Dries Mertens for a shot that rifled just wide from distance.

Ireland came close with a free kick from James McClean in the 85th minute, but with time running out, they could do little to turn the tide.

Photo: Reuters