Belgium Lose To Rival Netherlands

Our olympic squad lost respectfully yesterday to the Netherlands, our neighbor and longstanding rival. The match was played at Cristal Arena in front of 6,859 spectators. It was Belgium’s last preparation match for the olympics. We lost by a score of 0-1 against the U-21 Euro champions. Roy Makaay scored in the 84th minute for the Dutch. Belgium had so many chances to score in the first half thanks to Vertonghen, De Mul, and Dembélé. Unfortunately, we failed to capitalize on the opportunities. The Dutch were very dangerous in the second half, but the Belgians still had more chances. A frustrating loss for the young Belgians. It could have been worse, however, and the squad looks good for the olympics. I think we can make it out of our group of the host nation (China), Brazil, and New Zealand. Hup België! Allez Les Diablotins!

Match Facts:
Line-ups:
Belgium : Ma-Kalambay, De Roover (46′ Ciman), Kompany (73′ Rossini), Vermaelen (46′ Simaeys), Pocognoli (46′ Mulemo), Fellaini, Vertonghen, De Mul (46′ Vanden Borre), Haroun (66′ Odjidja-Ofoe), Martens (79′ Lamah), Dembélé

Netherlands : Velthuizen (46′ Vermeer), Zuiverloon (46′ De Guzman), Marcellis, Jaliens, Pieters, Beerens (46′ Sno), Maduro, Bakkal, Emanuelson (46′ Babel), Sibon (74′ Drenthe), Makaay

Yellow Cards : Sibon, Pieters, Ciman, Mulemo.

Goals: 84′ Makaay