Thorgan Hazard stunner helps Belgium reach Euro 2020 quarterfinals

Thorgan Hazard’s first half rocket helped Belgium beat defending champions Portugal and set up a mouth-watering Euro 2020 quarterfinal against Italy. 

It wasn’t the prettiest of wins, but Belgium got the job done against Portugal to qualify for the Euro 2020 quarterfinals. Thorgan Hazard’s stunning first half effort decided the round of 16 tie as Roberto Martinez’ side continued their pursuit of a first major trophy.

The first half was a fairly cagey affair as both teams looked to prioritise keeping things tight at the back. The game was finally brought to life in the 42nd minute when Thorgan Hazard got on the end of Thomas Meunier’s pass before letting fly from the edge of the box. His gorgeous curling effort left Rui Patricio with no chance and helped Belgium take the lead going into the break.

Belgium were happy to let Portugal do the majority of attacking in the second half. But they had the measure of Cristiano Ronaldo and co. for large parts of the game. Raphael Guerreiro came closest to scoring the equaliser for Portugal, as he struck the post with a fine effort from the edge of the box. Portugal threw everything they had at the Belgium defence, but it wasn’t enough in the end.

Belgium defended with great resolve and did really well to keep the dangerous Portugal forwards at bay. The Red Devils were helped by strong performances from Borussia Dortmund trio Thorgan Hazard, Axel Witsel and Thomas Meunier.

Belgium are now through to the Euro 2020 quarterfinals where they will go up against Italy, who defeated Austria 2-1 on Saturday. Both sides have won all four of their matches so far, and we could be in for a cracking affair in Munich next Friday.