A very close match ends in favor of Belgium. They defeat Canada, 1-0.
In the first half, it was the Canadian underdogs who got off to the better start. And in the 10th minute, they received a penalty after the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) detected a handball from Belgium inside the box. But Alphonso Davies was unable to convert when Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made a key save to keep it 0-0.
Canada thought they could have been awarded a second penalty later in the half. Richie Laryea fell under the challenge of Axel Witsel, who seemed to step on his foot. There certainly seemed to be contact, but the referee signaled for play to continue. The Canadian fans started chanting “VAR” from behind the opposing goal and got their wish when the VAR started watching. But no penalty was awarded.
Then, in the 44th minute and against the course of play, Belgian striker Michy Batshuayi received the ball and deposited it in the back of the Canadian net to take the lead.
In the second half, Belgium switched to a more defensive form after taking the lead. Canada continued to apply pressure.
As the half progressed, the Canadiens began to take more risks, pressing to find an equalizer, and the game was wide open. But alas, Canada’s quest for their first World Cup goal continues.
Canada will feel like they deserved something from this performance, but it’s Belgium who take all three points and sit on top of Group F. Earlier today in the group, Morocco and Croatia finished in a 0-0 draw.
