Luckless Canada takes Belgium to the wire

Canada was taught a tough lesson as it lost 1-0 to Belgium in its first World Cup match for 36 years on Wednesday.

Despite all its dominance, Canada couldn’t get the goal it so richly deserved and had the frustration of seeing Alphonso Davies’ penalty saved by Belgian keeper Thibaut Courtois in the first half.

The Canadians had 14 shots on the Belgian goal in the opening 45 minutes alone but couldn’t find the back of the net on a frustrating evening at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.

Belgium reached the World Cup semifinals in 2018 and the European team made Canada pay for their wastefulness.

Against the run of play, Michy Batshuayi fired his side ahead in the first half after the striker chased down a long pass.

Canada continued to create chances in the second half but just couldn’t find a breakthrough. “They showed tonight that they do belong here, its been a while since we’ve been back and our fans were brilliant,”

Canada manager John Herdman told reporters after the match, before revealing what he said in the team huddle at the end of the game. “I was passionate in the circle. I was proud, really proud to see us represent. I feel that was a big step for this country.”

Herdman also praised Davies for having the character to step up and take the penalty that was easily saved by Courtois.

“It’s a big moment for any player to do that, you’re carrying the weight of nation. Really proud he picked the ball up, it takes a special player to do that,” said Herdman. Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was announced as the best player of the match, a decision which surprised both Herdman – as well as the Manchester City star. “I did not play well, maybe I got it because of my name,” De Bruyne told reporters.