A late goal from Divock Origi has gave Belgium a 1-0 win against Group H rivals Russia -- and a place in the knockout rounds.
Belgium fortunate to snatch victory over Russia
Jamie SquireThey came alive inside the final 10 minutes, however, when a low free kick from Eden Hazard zipped off the turn and against Igor Akinfeev’s post. The chance seemed to jolt the Red Devils awake, and Hazard was at the heart of all of their attacking play. For the first time he drifted into central positions, and caused havoc in Russia’s defensive ranks. It paid dividends with just two minutes remaining, when he danced into the box and pulled the ball back across for substitute Divock Origi to smash into the roof of the net. Russia had no reply, and succumbed to an unfortunate defeat.
Belgium: Courtois; Vermaelen (Vertonghen 31’), Kompany, van Buyten, Alderweireld; Fellaini, Witsel, De Bruyne; Hazard, Lukaku (Origi 57’), Mertens (Mirallas 75’).
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