Belgium ease 3-0 past Russia in Euro 2020

BERLIN, June 12 Belgium scored twice in the first half and paved the way for all three points following a 3-0 win over hapless Russia at their opening game in Group B on Saturday.

A brace from Romelu Lukaku and a goal from substitute Thomas Meunier helped clinical "Red Devils" to jump atop the standings in Group B as Russia lacked penetration over 90 minutes.

Russia started highly motivated on home soil whereas Belgium kept the match at a slow pace. However, with ten minutes gone Lukaku broke the deadlock after capitalizing on Andrei Semyonov's blackout inside the box before firing past goalkeeper Anton Shunin.

Russia responded well and tested Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in quick succession through Mario Fernandes, but Courtois was equal to both headers.

Belgium remained ruthless and punished Russia for another mistake before the break as Shunin parried a shot on target into the path of Thomas Meunier, who made no mistake to tap home the 2-0 lead, seven minutes after his substitution in the 34th minute.

Belgium was in full control until half time but after the break the "Red Devils" handed over control to Russia.

Although Stanislav Cherchesov's men turned up after the restart, they weren't able to threaten Courtois for once.

Belgium eventually put the result beyond doubt in the 88th minute when Lukaku made the most of Meunier's through ball to wrap up his brace.

With the result, Belgium capture the top spot in Group B followed by Finland, Denmark and Russia

(Xinhua)