Belgium vs Slovakia
Watch Belgium vs Slovakia full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 16:00 (GMT) on 17th June 2024
The referee for this match is H. Meler
Game played at Frankfurt Arena
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group E, Season 2024
Slovakia Stuns Belgium with Schranz’s Early Strike in Euro 2024 Upset
In a surprising turn of events at UEFA Euro 2024, Slovakia secured a 1-0 victory over Belgium, marking the biggest upset of the tournament so far. Ivan Schranz’s early goal in Frankfurt proved decisive, as a resilient Slovakian side held firm against a barrage of Belgian attacks.
Early Drama and Slovakia’s Goal
The match began with high intensity and numerous opportunities. Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku was denied by Slovakian goalkeeper Martin Dúbravka early on, setting the tone for a thrilling encounter. Moments later, an error from Jérémy Doku allowed Slovakia to capitalize. Doku’s dangerous cross-field pass was intercepted, and although Juraj Kucka’s initial shot was saved, Schranz was quick to pounce on the rebound, putting Slovakia ahead.
Belgium’s Response
Despite going behind, Belgium continued to dominate possession and create chances. A misplaced pass from Dúbravka gave Leandro Trossard a chance from 25 yards, but his shot sailed over the empty net. Amadou Onana’s header was saved, and Lukaku missed a clear one-on-one opportunity. On the other end, Lukáš Haraslín’s well-struck volley required a fantastic save from Koen Casteels, showcasing the end-to-end nature of the first half.
Second Half Dominance but No Breakthrough
The second half saw Belgium exert relentless pressure on Slovakia. However, Dúbravka stood firm, making crucial saves to deny Lukaku and Trossard. A close-range effort from Lukaku was ruled out for offside after meeting Onana’s knock-down. The Belgian striker continued to find opportunities but was thwarted by Slovakia’s solid defense and a stunning goal-line clearance from Dávid Hancko.
Late Drama and Slovakia’s Historic Win
In the closing stages, Slovakia managed to regain some control and continued to thwart Belgium’s advances. A moment of controversy arose when Lukaku appeared to have equalized from Loïs Openda’s cross, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR check for handball in the build-up.
This result marks Slovakia’s first-ever victory over Belgium and moves them into second place in Group E, behind Romania, who defeated Ukraine earlier in the day. Belgium, unbeaten in their last 14 games under Domenico Tedesco, faced their first group stage defeat at a European Championship since 2000.
Looking Ahead
Slovakia will look to build on this historic win as they continue their Euro 2024 campaign, while Belgium will need to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming matches to stay in contention.