Croatia
BelgiumHow did the teams perform?
Croatia
Belgium
Match Stats
Lineup
Croatia
42' Roughing
71' Replaced by P. Sucic
71' Replaced by J. Sutalo
71' Replaced by M. Baturina
71' Replaced by I. Perisic
59' Replaced by J. Stanisic
59' Replaced by J. Gvardiol
59' Replaced by D. Livakovic
62'
Roughing
58' Replaced by P. Musa
58' Replaced by M. Kovacic
58' Replaced by L. Modric
Belgium
38'
38'
49' Roughing
79' Replaced by N. Raskin
73' Replaced by J. Doku
90+6'
73' Replaced by C. De Ketelaere
90+6'
68' Replaced by N. Ngoy
68' Replaced by M. De Cuyper
67' Replaced by A. Onana
69'
Roughing
67' Replaced by A. Saelemaekers
67' Replaced by K. De Bruyne
No standings data available for this league
Belgium claimed a commanding 2-0 victory over Croatia in a friendly at Stadion HNK Rijeka Dean Šćulac, with Youri Tielemans and Romelu Lukaku securing the win through goals in the 38th and 90+6th minutes.
Belgium traveled to the Croatian coast looking to build momentum in their preparations for upcoming fixtures. Croatia hosted the visitors hoping to test themselves against quality opposition. Both teams fielded strong lineups for this friendly encounter on June 2, 2026.
The match began with Croatia showing early intent. They dominated possession in the opening stages, controlling the ball with 57% throughout the match. However, Belgium’s defensive shape remained solid despite spending more time without the ball.
Belgium struck first in the 38th minute through Tielemans. The midfielder finished clinically to give the visitors a crucial lead heading into halftime. This goal came against the run of play, as Croatia had created more chances up to that point.
Croatia pushed forward seeking an equalizer before the break. Despite their territorial advantage, they managed only one shot on target through 45 minutes. Belgium’s goalkeeper made a crucial save to preserve their one-goal advantage.
The second half saw Belgium tighten their grip on the contest. Croatia continued to press forward but struggled to break down the Belgian defense. The visitors remained patient and dangerous on the counter-attack.
Romelu Lukaku sealed the victory deep into stoppage time. The striker fired home in the 90+6th minute to make it 2-0. This late goal ended any hopes Croatia harbored of mounting a comeback.
Belgium created eight total shots compared to Croatia’s five. The visitors registered four shots on target to Croatia’s one. Both teams received two yellow cards each during a relatively disciplined affair.
Tielemans earned a rating of 8.2 for his performance. The midfielder’s goal and two key passes proved decisive. Arthur Theate also impressed for Belgium with a 7.5 rating across 97 minutes.
Croatia’s possession dominance did not translate into clear-cut opportunities. They completed 467 accurate passes from 536 total attempts. Despite controlling the ball, they could not find the breakthrough their performance merited.
Both teams showed quality in what proved an entertaining friendly. Belgium’s efficiency in front of goal made the difference. Croatia will take positives from their display despite the defeat.
This victory provides Belgium with confidence as they continue their preparation schedule. Croatia can build on their possession-based approach in future fixtures. Both nations will use these minutes to fine-tune their tactics ahead of competitive matches.
