Lukaku marks Belgium return with goal as Red Devils defeat Croatia 2-0

Romelu Lukaku made a dream return to international football, scoring on his comeback as Belgium secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Croatia in an international friendly on Tuesday.

The match served as an important World Cup preparation fixture for both sides, with Belgium producing a disciplined performance away from home. Captain Youri Tielemans opened the scoring before Lukaku sealed the victory late on with a trademark finish.

Belgium took the lead in the 38th minute after Croatia failed to clear their lines following a dazzling run from Jeremy Doku. The loose ball fell kindly to Tielemans, who calmly swept it into the net from close range to give the visitors a deserved advantage.

The second half saw both managers rotate heavily, using the friendly as an opportunity to assess their World Cup squads. Croatia made 10 substitutions, while Belgium introduced several fresh faces, including Lukaku, who made his first international appearance in 12 months.

Belgium came close to doubling their lead in the 74th minute when Hans Vanaken rose highest to meet Tielemans’ corner, only to see his header crash against the crossbar.

Croatia also threatened after the break. Ante Budimir struck the woodwork, while veteran midfielder Luka Modric was denied by an excellent save from Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois before halftime.

The highlight of the evening arrived in stoppage time when Lukaku raced clear on goal and powered a clinical finish past the Croatian goalkeeper. The strike was his 90th goal for Belgium, extending his record as the country’s all-time leading scorer.

The goal capped an emotional return for the 33-year-old striker, who has endured a difficult season at club level with Napoli due to injuries and limited playing opportunities.

Belgium will now turn their attention to their final World Cup warm-up match against Tunisia in Brussels on Saturday, while Croatia face Slovenia on Sunday.

At the upcoming FIFA World Cup, Belgium will kick off their Group G campaign against Egypt in Seattle on June 15, while Croatia begin their Group L journey against England in Dallas on June 17.