Michy Batshuayi's first-half goal gives Belgium a hard-fought 1-0 win over Canada in their World Cup opener in Qatar.
The result moves the Red Devils to the top of Group F, with Croatia and Morocco tied on one point after the first round of matches, following their 0-0 draw earlier on Wednesday.
Canada's pace caused problems for Belgium's aging backline, and they had a chance to take the lead in the 13th minute from the penalty spot following a Yannick Carrasco handball at a corner.
Thibaut Courtois dived low to his right to make the save as Alphonso Davies stepped up to take the shot.
Canada kept up the pressure, and a penalty shout was reviewed by VAR in the 39th minute after Richie Laryea went down in the area under a challenge from Axel Witsel, but it was ruled not to be a penalty.
Belgium took the lead against the run of play two minutes before halftime thanks to Batshuayi. He latched onto Toby Alderweireld's hopeful long ball and slotted his shot into the bottom corner.
The second half was a scrappy affair, with Belgium eager to stymie Canada's quick attack at any cost.
Canada had numerous shots on goal but lacked creativity. Jonathan David nodded a free header over the bar in the 49th minute, giving them their best chance to equalize.
With ten minutes remaining, substitute Cyle Larin had a good chance to equalize, but his tame header from close range was saved by Courtois.
QUESTION - HOW FAR CAN BELGIUM REALISTICALLY GO?
Belgium rode their luck at times against Canada, who had 22 shots on goal to Belgium's seven.
Veterans Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen struggled to keep up with Canada's pace, and the scoreline could have been much different if Alphonso Davies had converted a first-half penalty.
Although Belgium got the three points they needed, Morocco and Croatia will both fancy their chances against Roberto Martinez's side, which looked a little rusty compared to the one that reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2018.
8 - Belgium have won each of their last 8 group matches in the World Cup, equalling the best such run in the competition made by Brazil (twice, from 1986-1994 and 2002-2010). Serious. #BELCAN pic.twitter.com/uoWZPczGP0
— OptaJean (@OptaJean) November 23, 2022
