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Lukaku scores in Belgium's 2-0 friendly win over Croatia
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Napoli forward Romelu Lukaku scored on his return to international football after more than a year, helping Belgium to a 2-0 victory over Croatia in a World Cup friendly in Rijeka. Lukaku, who had been sidelined since September 2025 due to injury, netted in the 96th minute. This match was Belgium's penultimate fixture before their World Cup opener against Egypt on June 15. Lukaku, 33, has played only 64 minutes for his club this season due to a hip injury. Belgium's coach Rudi Garcia started Atalanta midfielder Charles De Ketelaere in attack, with Lukaku on the bench. Belgium took a 1-0 lead at halftime with a goal from Aston Villa playmaker Youri Tielemans in the 38th minute. Croatia, World Cup semi-finalists in 2022, had chances from captain Luka Modric and Osasuna striker Ante Budimir, who hit the bar. Lukaku secured his 90th international goal in injury time, doubling Belgium's lead. Croatia will conclude their World Cup preparations by hosting Slovenia on Sunday before starting their campaign against England on June 17. Belgium will host Tunisia on Saturday.
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