Austria, without injured stars like Marko Arnautovic and David Alaba, got off to a tough start. Only twelve minutes into the clash, Dodi Lukebakio introduced himself.
The powerful winger, who caused havoc against Sweden last spring, pushed forward on the right wing and snarled the lead goal in the far post.
Dramatic second half
It turned out to be Belgium and Lukebakio’s night. Barely ten minutes into the second half, it was time again.
Yannick Carrasco played short to Lukebakio on a free kick and the winger put in his second of the night after a defensive control.
Three minutes later, another director of victory against Sweden stepped forward this spring. This time it was Romelu Lukaku.
The Roma striker distinctly pushed in 3-0 after a fine play from Jeremy Doku. Centertanken’s ninth goal in the EC qualifiers.
The cog suspended against Sweden
Austria captain Konrad Laimer then polished the numbers to 3–1 with 20 minutes remaining. In the final stages, Amadou Onana was also sent off after his second yellow, which means that the Belgian midfield shadow is suspended against Sweden.
As if that wasn’t enough, Austria were also awarded a penalty with six minutes remaining after Arthur Theate caught the ball on the arm. It managed Marcel Sabitzer in the best way and thus reduced to 3–2.
A result that stood up to the match and means that Belgium is now ready for the European Championship play-offs.