Support TIME. Preserve the truth.
World Cup 2026

Belgium looking for calm after Lukaku returns with goal

Romelu Lukaku

Belgium are looking to defy expectations after an impressive win over Croatia in Rijeka on Tuesday. A goal from Romelu Lukaku came as a major boost ahead of the World Cup.

The powerful striker scored his 90th goal in the 2-0 win over Croatia. Lukaku's goal actually carries a lot of weight for Belgium. He returned to the national team after a year's absence and a difficult season in which he played less than an hour for Napoli.

Support the TIME. Preserve the truth.

Professional journalism is in the public interest. Your support helps it remain independent and credible. Contribute too. 1 euro makes a difference.

Letter to the Reader — Why We're Asking for Your Support Contribute

"For Lukaku it's very important. He lives for goals. The fact that he scored is something we're all happy about," said Belgium coach Rudi Garcia.

"You saw the reaction of his teammates. Everyone went to celebrate with Lukaku. He deserves it. Our top scorer. Our super-scorer has scored again and that's fantastic. That goal is good for his confidence. But we have to be careful. It can be dangerous to rush. We have to take it step by step," Garcia added.

Lukaku has been out with a thigh injury since early March. Garcia said the 33-year-old striker was in better shape than he had hoped.

The Belgian coach, however, warned that after serious injuries, the start can be good and then obstacles arise.

Youri Tielemans scored the first goal in the 38th minute, before Lukaku sealed the win in the 96th minute.

"I think it was a close and hard-fought match," midfielder Kevin De Bruyne said.

"We tested some things, but not the necessities with the intention of implementing them in the World Cup. As a team we were quite compact and did not allow many things to the opponent. We are still looking for some things and there are some aspects where we can play better," added the Belgian veteran.

De Bruyne has also said that the start is good, but that the team needs to stay calm.

"A lot of things can change. There will be moments during the World Cup when things can get difficult. This team wants to approach the World Cup in a positive way," De Bruyne stressed.

Belgium plays Tunisia in Brussels on Saturday before traveling to the United States. They open their World Cup campaign against Egypt in Seattle on June 15.