Belgium-Turkey Kevin De Bruyne opens the game and creates first chance

A few days after the 0-1 defeat to France, Belgium face Turkey this Friday as part of the third matchday of the Nations League, and Kevin De Bruyne opens the scoring for the Red Devils.

The Turks arrive in Liège with two consecutive setbacks, no wins since the start of the international window. A third defeat could be added if the Red Devils maintain their momentum.

Start of the match and De Bruyne’s goal

Mark van Bommel started the Napoli midfielder, Kevin De Bruyne, a decision he described as a good choice. The former Manchester City player quickly put his experience to use.

In the tenth minute, a ball recovered on the left, a one‑two with Dodi Lukebakio, then a low right‑footed strike from De Bruyne found the back of the net. It was his thirty‑nine‑th goal for the national team, scored in 127 matches.

This goal was his first since June 27, when he scored against New Zealand in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.

Coach’s reactions and outlook

The second goal came in the fifty‑nine‑th minute, after another combination with Lukebakio. Turkey dominated the second half, creating several chances, including a strike from Arda Güler that rattled the post.

The coach confirmed the return of Leandro Trossard and Mike Penders, who were injured at the start of the camp. The Besiktas winger suffered a heel edema, the Chelsea goalkeeper a slight quadriceps injury, while Diego Moreira remains suspended.

"We want to win every match, but tomorrow's is crucial," said Mark van Bommel in Tubize. He added that a victory would bring Belgium closer to the top of the table, while France and Italy will face each other the same evening in Saint‑Denis.

The Dutch manager highlighted that Turkey, despite its setbacks against France (0‑1) and Italy (1‑4), creates many chances and dominates the expected goals of its opponents.

After the success in Liège, the Red Devils will meet France on Monday evening for the final match of the window, while Turkey will look to bounce back in their next fixture.