On the back of a pale first win over Canada, the Belgians were hoping to prove their worth with a more convincing display against Morocco. But on the contrary, the Red Devils produced one of the most feeble displays in recent memory, succumbing to a 0-2 defeat at the hands of their North African foes. So let’s check out the player ratings for Belgium who will have to earn their qualification when they take on Croatia following today’s defeat against Morocco.
Belgium (3-4-2-1)
Thibaut Courtois – 4
He might be one of the best goalkeepers on the planet, but it was a day to forget for the Real Madrid custodian who was beaten twice by freekicks from acute angles. While VAR bailed him out on the first occasion, their was no way back from the Sabiri’s shot. However, there was nothing he could do on the second goal.
Toby Alderweireld – 6
A decent outing from the veteran defender who was solid at the back.
Jan Vertonghen – 6
Just like his longtime defensive partner, the experienced centre-back put up a convincing shift at the back, nullifying En-Nesyri’s threat. Made a vital clearance on a dangerous high ball.
Timothy Castagne – 5.5
Originally a wingback, the former Atalanta man looked awkward in the third defender role. He rarely darted forward (obviously on the orders of Roberto Martinez) and had his hands full of Hakim Ziyech.
Thomas Meunier – 5.5
The Borussia Dortmund man was all over the right flank, but his delivery wasn’t always on cue. Wasted a promising chance for Belgium by making the wrong cross.
Amadou Onana – 5.5
The youngster is obviously one for the future, but he just couldn’t assert his authority on the middle of the park. Sustained a yellow card and ran the risk of receiving a second booking.
Axel Witsel – 5
The well-travelled midfielder seemed more interested in protecting the backline than helping his team in creating play. Switched to the backline by the end of the match, but gave too much space for Aboukhlal to smash home the deadly blow.
Thorgan Hazard – 5.5
The BVB man started on a positive note by putting Batshuayi through on goal, but he faded out of the match as the minutes progressed.
Kevin De Bruyne – 6
The Man City star can pick up a teammate with the simplest of touches, but the Moroccan players managed to limit his threat by keep him under close guard.
Eden Hazard – 5.5
A disappointing outing in general from the Real Madrid winger. He tested Munir with a solid shot, but this was his lone marquee moment.
Michy Batshuayi – 5
The match-winner from Canada’s encounter couldn’t find a path in between Sais and Aguerd, expect for one early chance which was easily dealt with by the goalkeeper.
Read our Player Ratings for Morocco
Substitutes
Youri Tielemans – 5.5
The Leicester man tried to add some steel to the midfield, but the European were still overran by Amrabat and company.
Dries Mertens – 6
The Napoli legend tested Munir with a decent shot after coming on, but disappeared in the final minutes.
Leandro Trossard – 6
The Brighton winger was an upgrade on Thorgan Hazard on the left flank and made some dangerous runs and dribbles.
Charles De Ketelaere – 5
The Milan youngster hardly saw the ball after coming in.
Romelu Lukaku – N/A
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