Belgium manager Roberto Martinez sprung a surprise against Brazil in Friday’s World Cup quarter-final clash as he deployed striker Romelu Lukaku on the right wing, moving Kevin de Bruyne to a centre-forward’s role.
The move worked as Lukaku’s pace out wide was a threat throughout, and he assisted De Bruyne for a goal in a 2-1 win.
Here’s a closer look at the Belgium striker’s performance.
KEY STATS
Goals – 0
Shots – 0
Assists – 1
Dribbles – 2
Key Passes – 1
Aerials won – 1
30-SECOND REPORT
This was a game where Lukaku’s value was more in his presence, as a threat the Brazilian defence had to pay attention to while the players around him were running riot. Deployed on the right wing rather than centrally, he wasn’t at his best, but his pace and movement kept creating space for De Bruyne and Eden Hazard to exploit.
GOT RIGHT
Movement – As always, Lukaku’s movement was superb. Even though he was deployed in an unfamiliar position, he always got himself into dangerous positions. Indeed, his teammates should have found him more often.
Pace – One of the reasons Martinez occasionally puts Lukaku out on the wing is because of the Manchester United man’s searing pace. That speed was crucial to Belgium’s counterattacking style.
GOT WRONG
First touch – Lukaku’s first touch was at its infamous worst again, as on more than one occasion his inability to reel the ball in cost Belgium, bringing attacks to a premature end.
Passing – Other than the pass which set up De Bruyne’s goal, Lukaku’s distribution was often inaccurate. For someone whose link-up play is usually so strong, it was a disappointment.
VERDICT
This wasn’t quite vintage Lukaku – largely because he was played out of position. Adjusting to that in a game of this magnitude showed the Manchester United man’s growth as a player. His pace on the wing constantly pushed Brazil’s defence back, and just the mere threat of his presence terrorised the Selecao back line. This was a mature, well-rounded performance from a fast-developing player.
RATING – 8/10