News Focus
- Romelu Lukaku scores his first Belgium goal since June 2025
- Belgium secure 2-0 friendly victory against Croatia
- Youri Tielemans opens scoring during first half
- Match serves as preparation for 2026 World Cup
- Numerous Serie A players feature for both nations
Romelu Lukaku has ended his goal drought for Belgium. The Napoli centre-forward scored in a 2-0 friendly victory against Croatia. Several Serie A stars appeared in this World Cup warm-up match.
Youri Tielemans gave Belgium the lead during the first half. Lukaku added the second goal late in the game with a quick counter-attack finish. This was his first strike for his country since June 2025.
The goal brings relief for the striker. He has scored only once for Napoli this season. That goal came against Hellas Verona on February 28. He has also struggled with injuries. A serious thigh tear in August 2025 kept him out of action. He last played on March 6 due to muscular problems.
Lukaku now has 90 goals for Belgium. AC Milan defender Koni De Winter came on as a substitute alongside the striker. Croatia’s starting eleven included Inter Milan’s Petar Sucic and Como midfielder Martin Baturina. Nikola Moro, Mario Pasalic, Marin Pongracic and Nikola Vlasic also entered the match after half-time.
Both teams used this fixture to prepare for the 2026 World Cup. The tournament will take place in the United States, Mexico and Canada.