Lukaku makes Belgium return with 'ideal' goal in win over Croatia

June 2, 2026 - 19:40

Romelu Lukaku marked his return to the Belgium national team with a goal in a 2-0 friendly victory over Croatia on Tuesday, his first appearance for the Red Devils in over a year. The Napoli striker found the net in what Belgium captain Youri Tielemans described as an "ideal" outcome for both the player and the squad.

"This is ideal for Romelu, but also ideal for the team," Tielemans told VTM after the match. "We know how important he is to the group."

Lukaku had been absent from international duty since the European Championship last summer, missing several matches due to injury and a lack of game time at club level. His return to the starting lineup against a strong Croatian side was seen as a key test ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures.

The 31-year-old forward opened the scoring in the first half, slotting home a precise finish after a well-worked team move. Belgium added a second goal later in the game to seal the victory, but the focus remained on Lukaku's contribution.

Manager Domenico Tedesco praised the striker's work rate and movement, noting that his presence gives the team a different attacking dimension. With Lukaku back in form and scoring, Belgium's attacking options look significantly stronger as they prepare for their next qualifying rounds.