A superb first half strike from Thorgan Hazard, younger brother of Eden Hazard, earned Belgium a hardfought 1-0 win against holders Portugal, in Sunday’s round of 16 clash in Seville.
Hazard scored late in the first half with a swerving strike which flew past Rui Patricio.
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Portugal had the first chance on six minutes but Diogo Jota fired his left-foot shot wide after being played through on goal by Renato Sanchez.
In the 10th minute Belgium had their first chance on goal but Eden Hazard hit his effort way off target following a one-two exchange with Romelu Lukaku.
Cristiano Ronaldo almost opened the scoring with a dangerous free kick on 25 minutes which Thibaut Courtois did well to stop.
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Belgium broke the deadlock three minutes to half time as Hazard fired from outside the box which swerve and beat a helpless Patricio in goal for Portugal.
Two minutes into the second half Belgium suffered a blow as Kevin de Bruyne went off with an injury which he suffered in the first half and was replaced by Dries Mertens.
In the 58th minute Portugal almost drew level through Jota after good play from Ronaldo but his strike went just over the bar.
With 10 minutes remaining Andre Silva met Bruno Fernandes’ cross which went over the bar.
Portugal had a big chance to equalize on 83 minute only for Ruben Dias heading straight at Courtois from a corner.
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Few seconds later Guerrero went close for Portugal only to see his low shot hit the post.
In added time Felix hit a low shot which went just wide of the target.
The defeat means Portugal has failed to defend their title, also Cristiano Ronaldo chances of winning another trophy for his country is over.
The win was Belgium’s first against Portugal since 1989.
They will now face Italy in the quarterfinals on Friday July 2nd in Munich.
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