Belgian U17 just missed final European Championship

YOUTH The national U17 have failed to qualify for the European Championship finals. After a weak first and strong second half, they lost 2-1 to Italy. With Belgium, Lissens and Masscho (photo) started in the starting eleven.


After a fairly average first half, the young Belgians were happy that the damage was limited to one goal halfway. Gyabuaa completed a great Italian attack. 1-0 halfway.

After the break we got a completely different game picture. Belgium immediately pushed back the Italians and was rewarded shortly before the hour. Captain Raskin (former Anderlecht) put on a brilliant attack, Vertessen made the equalizer with a crossed shot. His fourth of the tournament, with which he became top scorer of the tournament for the time being.

A few minutes later, coach Siquet put Doku on the field, the third player from Anderlecht between the lines. The fact that Doku often starts on the bench, despite his status as a top talent, is not surprising anyway. Doku was the only Belgian born in 2002 between the lines.

Ten minutes before time, Lars Dendoncker (brother of, but player of Club Brugge) headed a long ball a bit too central, and Vergani revealed a great kick. 2-1. It is also the fourth of the tournament for Vergani.

Siquet reacted immediately and brought with Timassi a fourth player from Anderlecht between the lines. In the final minute of the regular playing time, Masscho took a good shot, but it went just over. Belgium could just as well have won, but can still look back on a successful tournament.