Belgium 1-0 Canada: Michy Batshuayi goal enough as Red Devils hold off Plucky North Americans

A first half goal from Michy Batshuayi hands Belgium a hard-fought 1-0 win over Canada in their World Cup opener in Qatar.

The result means the Red Devils move top of Group F with Croatia and Morocco both tied on one point – following their 0-0 draw earlier on Wednesday – after the opening round of matches.

Canada’s pace caused Belgium’s aging backline a wealth of problems and they had the chance to take the lead in the 13th minute from the penalty spot after a Yannick Carrasco handball at a corner.

Canada’s pace caused Belgium’s aging backline a wealth of problems and they had the chance to take the lead in the 13th minute from the penalty spot after a Yannick Carrasco handball at a corner.