The match between Belgium and Ukraine on March 23, 2025, marked a significant revival for the Belgian national team, the "Rode Duivels," as they secured a decisive 3-0 victory at home in Genk. After a lackluster first half, the team showcased a dramatic improvement, demonstrating resilience and skill that indicated a potential turning point for the squad.
From the outset, the game set a high-stakes atmosphere since Belgium faced the threat of relegation from the A-divison of the Nations League. Coach Rudi Garcia opted for a revised lineup, replacing the injured Thibaut Courtois with Matz Sels as goalkeeper due to knee issues Courtois had previously sustained. Garcia’s strategy involved significant changes, including placing Nicolas Raskin and Hans Vanaken at the heart of the midfield, while also integrating five new players into the starting eleven.
Although the first half saw Belgium dominate possession, holding a staggering 75 percent, their performance did not translate into goals. Despite a series of promising attempts led by Kevin De Bruyne, including a shot that hit the crossbar, the team went into halftime without finding the net, leaving fans anxious.
The second half kickstarted a notable transformation in Belgium's attacking approach. Garcia's adjustments began to pay dividends when substitute Maxim De Cuyper scored just one minute after stepping onto the pitch, putting the home team ahead 1-0. The goal, a product of a beautiful assist from Jeremy Doku, ignited the stadium, restoring belief among fans and players alike.
Romelu Lukaku, Belgium’s all-time leading scorer, elevated the excitement further by scoring two goals in quick succession. His first, a phenomenal half-volley, showcased his striking prowess and turned the tide in favor of the Belgians. The goal came in the 75th minute, after which Lukaku expressed his exuberance, reminding everyone of his capability and value to the team.
With momentum firmly on their side, Lukaku added another goal in the 86th minute, assisted deftly by Vanaken, sealing the match at 3-0 and eliminating any doubts regarding Belgium's standing in the Nations League. The result not only ensured their continuation in the top division but also delineated a stark improvement from their previous encounter with Ukraine, where they suffered a disappointing loss.
In the aftermath, Garcia praised his squad for their resolve and the evident difference in mentality demonstrated in the second half. "That’s the kind of mentality and performance we want to see," Garcia reflected. The second half performance significantly contrasted with their lack of effectiveness in the first match in Murcia, where they struggled to assert themselves and fell short of expected goals.
Beyond individual contributions, the cohesion between Raskin and Vanaken in midfield appeared pivotal for Belgium. The duo not only displayed resilience but also a marked improvement in the distribution and flow of play, enabling more dynamic movements and designs of attack.
The success against Ukraine culminated in enthusiastic support from the nearly 24,000 fans at the Cegeka Arena, who rallied behind their team in a show of unwavering loyalty and passion. Amid chants and cheers, the players were visibly invigorated, a stark contrast to the disheartened reflections seen in the wake of previous matches.
"These matches are vital for us, for our country and our people. We need to continue to promote positivity through our performance on the pitch," stated Ukraine's coach Serhiy Rebrov, who recognized the importance of the game amidst ongoing tensions in his home country. His desire to showcase a spirited contest did not go unrecognized but ultimately fell short against the revitalized Belgian side.
While the journey is far from over for Belgium, the transformation witnessed in their latest match offers promising signs of growth, resilience, and renewed hope. The upcoming matches, set for the 2026 season, will be crucial as they aim to maintain their standing amidst Europe’s elite in international football.
With the combination of skill from experienced players like Lukaku, fresh energy from substitutes like De Cuyper, and strategic ingenuity from Garcia, fans are left to wonder: is this the beginning of a new chapter for the Rode Duivels, or just a fleeting moment in an unpredictable campaign? Only time will tell as they move forward, taking lessons earned from this significant victory into their future endeavors on the pitch.
