Lukaku’s 14 goals are the most-ever scored in the qualifiers for a single Euros campaign
In a commanding Euro 2024 Group F qualifier held in windy Brussels on Sunday, striker Romelo Lukaku showcased brilliance by netting four goals within the first 20 minutes of the match, leading Belgium to a resounding 5-0 triumph over a 10-man Azerbaijan.
Lukaku exhibited a remarkable showcase of precise finishing, elevating his goal count to 14 in eight games. Belgium, having already secured qualification, claimed the top spot in the group. Azerbaijan concluded the campaign in fourth place with seven points from eight games.
The home side swiftly gained a 4-0 lead within 37 minutes, capitalizing on an early red card for Azerbaijan’s Eddy Israfilov, who was sent off for a second booking following a wild lunge on Lukaku.
Leandro Trossard secured a late fifth goal, but Belgium’s victory was led by captain Lukaku, who reached 83 international goals in 113 appearances before being substituted at halftime. The win extends coach Domenico Tedesco’s unbeaten streak to 10 games, winning eight of them.
Azerbaijan struggled against Belgium’s passing, movement, and Lukaku’s power, as the striker’s four clinical finishes showcased his dominance. The night began oddly with the Swedish national anthem played instead of Azerbaijan’s.
Lukaku’s scoring spree continued, completing a hat-trick and adding a fourth goal after Azerbaijan’s Israfilov received a second yellow card. His 14 goals set a record for the most in a single Euros campaign.
The second half saw a decrease in intensity, but Trossard secured a late fifth goal to cap a lively display from the Arsenal forward.
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