Belgium out of the World Cup

BELGIUM bowed out of the World Cup after falling short in a goalless draw with Croatia in their final group game at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.

Substitute Romelu Lukaku hit a post for Belgium in the second half, but they needed to win to progress, while the point was enough for Croatia, who finished second in Group F behind winners Morocco.

Belgium, number two in FIFA’s world rankings, had failed to impress in their opening two group games - a 1-0 win against Canada and a 2-0 defeat to Morocco - and their latest setback could signal the end of an era for Roberto Martinez’s ‘golden generation’.

Eden Hazard was dropped for his country’s do-or-die encounter and his introduction as a late replacement failed to lift his side.

Morocco edged past Canada to top Group F and reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 36 years.

Hakim Ziyech and Youssef EnNesyri put them 2-0 in front, but Nayef Aguerd deflected in an own goal before the break to give Canada hope.

Today sees the group stage reach its conclusion and there is plenty to play for in both Groups G and H.

Brazil are already through in G and seem unlikely to lose against Cameroon, who must win to stand any chance of progression, meaning it’s a potential winnertakes-all clash between Switzerland and Serbia.

Switzerland are currently second on three points, while Serbia have a point, but a win for them would see them finish on four points and overtake the Swiss.

In Group H, Portugal lead the way with two wins from two and they face South Korea, who need to win and hope Uruguay take something from their game against Ghana, in order to qualify.

Ghana are currently second on three points with Uruguay on one, so a win for the South Americans could be enough for them to steal second place.