Tuesday November 26, 2024

Belgium beat Panama by 3-0 in World Cup

Published : 18 Jun 2018, 20:46

Updated : 18 Jun 2018, 23:51

DF-Xinhua Report

Axel Witsel (R front) of Belgium vies with Gabriel Gomez (L front) of Panama during a group G match between Belgium and Panama at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Sochi, Russia, June 18, 2018. Photo Xinhua by Bai Xueqi.

Three beautifully crafted goals in the second half helped Belgium defeat Panama 3-0 in the opening match of the World Cup Group G actions here on Monday.

Panama staged an encouraging first-half performance on their World Cup debut as they held Belgium's talented team to a 0-0 draw at halftime.

After struggling to find the net before halftime, Belgium needed only two minutes to open the scoring in the second half as Dries Mertens struck home with a superb volley.

Romelu Lukaku hit double in the 69th and 75th minute to increase Belgians' advantage.

Belgium now go top of Group G, with Tunisia playing England later on Monday.