Lukaku fires Belgium to victory

Romelu Lukaku  was the star player for his Belgium team on Saturday as they thrashed the Republic of Ireland 3-0 in the sides’ Euro 2016 clash.

Belgium never looked troubled in the game as they completely outplayed the Irish.

Belgium’s domination of the first half was clearly reflected in the statistics. According to SASoccermag’s Opta-powered match centre, the Belgians had 70 percent of the possession in the first period. They also dominated the shot count, managing eight efforts compared to Ireland’s single attempt.

In a less dominant but more clinical second-half, Belgium’s share of the possession fell to 54 percent for the match, but the side racked up a total of 17 shots compared to Ireland’s 10 in total.

Lukaku proved the catalyst for the side as he plundered two goals of the three goals in the game. The Everton star’s first came as he fired home following a ball by Kevin De Bruyne, while he grabbed another after being set up by Chelsea star Edan Hazard from close range.

Lukaku proved too much for the Irish defence to handle as he managed 29 touches in the game and illustrated his deadly finishing ability, scoring with both of his two shots.

The striker proved a constant threat in the box, while he also made 21 of his 24 passes.

Photo: Reuters