Belgium 0-1 Slovakia: Falcons stun Red Devils as Osimhen's ex-coach ends 14-match unbeaten run at EURO 2024

A dejected Romelu Lukaku after the VAR denied him of two goals. (Photo Credit: EURO2024/X)

Belgium 0-1 Slovakia: Falcons stun Red Devils as Osimhen's ex-coach ends 14-match unbeaten run at EURO 2024

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 18:57 - 17.06.2024

Slovakia managed by Victor Osimhen's former coach at Napoli have delivered the first shock of the EURO 2024 after stunning win against Belgium.

Belgium's Red Devils have been left red-faced after a shock 1-0 defeat to minnows Slovakia led by Victor Osimhen's former coach in their opening EURO 2024 clash.

The Red Devils, boasting a star-studded squad, came into the match as heavy favorites against the relative underdogs in the EURO 2024 Group E opener.

But a dogged display from the Slovaks, managed by former Napoli coach Francesco Calzona, proved too much for the Belgians on Monday evening.

Slovakia shock Belgium

Ivan Schranz grabbed the winner for the Falcons in the first half, capitalising on some sloppy play from Manchester City's Jeremy Doku to punish the Red Devils.

And despite having two Romelu Lukaku goals chalked off by VAR, Belgium were unable to find an equaliser as Slovakia held on for a famous victory.

Historic day for Slovakian football.
Historic day for Slovakian football. (Photo Credit: EURO 2024/X)

EURO 2024 Shocker

It was anything but a smash-and-grab from Slovakia. They were brave and confident, especially in the first half despite Belgium controlling possession. 

Osimhen's old gaffer Calzona, who was an interim manager in a troubled season for the Super Eagles star and his Napoli team, clearly got his Falcons well-drilled and organized.

Napoli's temporary manager Francesco Calzona last season.
Napoli's temporary manager Francesco Calzona last season. | Imago

The shock result, their first defeat in 14 matches under Domenico Tedesco, will come as a huge blow to Belgium, whose hopes of going all the way at the EURO have suffered an early setback. 

But for Slovakia, it's a famous win that will send shockwaves through the tournament as they look to end their poor run of exiting the competition in the group stage..

Romelu Lukaku will feel hard done by after VAR erased two of his goals.
Romelu Lukaku will feel hard done by after VAR erased two of his goals. (Photo Credit: UEFA)

It remains to be seen how Belgium will bounce back from this humiliating defeat. But one thing's for sure - Slovakia have well and truly announced themselves on the big stage.

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