Romelu Lukaku missed several chances as Belgium was knocked out of the World Cup at the group stage after drawing against Croatia which progressed at Belguim’s expense with a goalless draw in Qatar.
Roberto Martinez’s side, who finished third in Russia four years ago and are ranked second in the world, have had a disappointing tournament with just one win in three matches.
Even though they were aware that a victory was required to advance to the round of 16, they put up another lackluster performance against Croatia.
Romelu Lukaku, a substitute, had multiple opportunities to score in the second half but was unable to do so.
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When the ball struck him in front of the goal in stoppage time, Lukaku, who is still recovering from an injury, reacted too late.
2018 finalists Croatia earned the necessary point to advance from Group F as runners-up, while Morocco claimed the top spot after defeating Canada 2-1.
Zlatko Dalic’s side will face the winners of Group E – which is currently Spain – in the last 16.
Belgium players fell to the floor at full-time as their supporters behind the far goal politely applauded them off the pitch.
Lukaku, who replaced Dries Mertens at half-time, came into the game with intent and immediately brought additional energy to the Belgium side.
But his missed opportunities in the second half proved costly, with each one bringing an audible collective groan from the stands and Inter Milan striker the punched the dugout in frustration after the final whistle.
Although Croatia was unconvincing—they had a penalty disallowed by VAR in the first half due to an offside in the buildup—they managed to advance.
However, they appeared to be performing at a level below what they did to advance to the final in Russia four years prior, and their post-qualifying celebrations were somewhat subdued.
