Napoli forward Romelu Lukaku scored in his first international match in over a year. Belgium defeated Croatia 2-0 on Tuesday in Rijeka during a World Cup friendly.
Lukaku found the net in the 96th minute. He had been out since September 2025 because of an injury. This match was Belgium’s second to last before they face Egypt on June 15.
The 33-year-old has played just 64 minutes for Napoli this season due to a hip problem.
Croatia reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2022. They have a strong squad, led by captain Luka Modric, who wore a mask because of an injury. Croatia will end their World Cup preparations with a match against Slovenia on Sunday.
They will kick off their World Cup campaign against England on June 17.
On the Adriatic coast, Lukaku started the game on the bench. Coach Rudi Garcia chose Atalanta midfielder Charles De Ketelaere for the attacking role.
Belgium led 1-0 at halftime. Aston Villa playmaker Youri Tielemans scored in the 38th minute.
Before the break, Modric had Croatia’s best chance with a shot. Later, Osasuna striker Ante Budimir hit the bar near the hour mark.
Belgium scored again in injury time. Lukaku netted his 90th international goal. Next, they will host Tunisia on Saturday.
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