Euro Shocker! Red Devils Stunned by Slovakia in Frankfurt! (De Bruyne & Doku Frustrated)
Slovakia pulled off a fairy-tale victory against the mighty Red Devils at the Frankfurt Arena! Ivan Schranz’s early strike (7th minute) proved to be the difference, despite Belgium peppering the goal with chances throughout the match.
Even the magical playmaking duo of Kevin De Bruyne (“KDB”) and the electrifying Jeremy Doku couldn’t unlock the resolute Slovakian defense. Doku showcased his trademark speed early on, setting up De Bruyne for a golden opportunity that Romelu Lukaku squandered.
De Bruyne himself nearly forced an error from Martin Dubravka, but Leandro Trossard skyed the rebound. Belgium kept knocking on the door, with Amadou Onana directing a header straight at the Slovakian keeper. Just before halftime, Slovakia nearly doubled their lead, but Koen Casteels pulled off a stunning save to deny Lukas Haraslin.
The second half saw a reinvigorated Belgium desperate for an equalizer. Lukaku thought he had found the net just before the hour mark, but VAR (Video Assistant Referee) had other plans, ruling him offside. De Bruyne and Doku continued to torment the Slovakian defense, but Lukaku’s finishing woes continued with a weak attempt on his right foot.
The drama wasn’t over! Doku’s persistence paid off with a dangerous cross, forcing Dubravka into a parry. Johan Bakayoko pounced on the loose ball, only to see his shot cleared off the line. As the clock ticked down, a glimmer of hope emerged for Belgium. Lois Openda, a late substitute, set up Lukaku for a powerful strike, but VAR intervened again, this time for a controversial handball call against the winger in the build-up.
Heartbroken and frustrated, Belgium were left empty-handed. They now face a crucial clash against Group E leaders Romania on Saturday, with their Euro hopes hanging in the balance.
