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Romelu Lukaku’s hat-trick helped Belgium make a flying start to qualifying for Euro 2024, as they defeated Sweden 3-0 to hand Domenico Tedesco victory in his first competitive game in charge.
Romelu Lukaku put aside his indifferent form for Inter Milan to deliver a remarkable goalscoring display, scoring a hat-trick as Belgium defeated Sweden 3-0 in Euro 2024 qualifying.
How it happened
Belgium began the game on the front foot and immediately carved out a chance when Dodi Lukebakio’s effort was deflected just wide of the right post.
Sweden responded by almost taking the lead themselves when Dejan Kulusevski’s shot crept under Thibaut Courtois, but Wout Faes was able to recover just in time to prevent the ball from crossing the line.
Lukaku's big night for Belgium
Belgium took the lead when Lukebakio’s pinpoint cross found Romelu Lukaku, and the striker made no mistake by glancing a header home for his 69th international goal.
Belgium continued to attack after the break and duly got a second. Lukebakio weaved his way past some Swedish defenders before squaring to Lukaku, who tapped the ball in from close range.
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22:56 - 23.03.2023
EURO 2024 Ronaldo celebrates international milestone with brace against Liechtenstein
Cristiano Ronaldo broke another international record and was on target twice, as Portugal beat minnows Liechtenstein in EURO 2024 qualifying
With just over 15 minutes remaining, Zlatan Ibrahimovic was introduced from the bench to become the oldest player to feature in European qualifying.
However, his presence was not enough to inspire a comeback as Lukaku completed his hat-trick in the closing stages to seal the win for Belgium.
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