The North Americans were the more threatening team, but they could not find a breakthrough
Belgium were able to fend off Canada for a 1-0 victory Wednesday in their Group F opener at the World Cup. In the 44th minute, a goal from Michy Batshuayi after a long ball over the top from Toby Alderweireld made the difference, but Canada had their chances to win. In a big moment early in the match, Alphonso Davies stepped up for only the third penalty of his professional career, firing a disappointing take right into the arms of Thibaut Courtois.
Canada were bossing the game, taking the ball off of Yannick Carrasco, but Belgium’s halftime changes bringing on Amadou Onana and Thomas Meunier were able to help regain control. Canada had plenty of chances but weren’t able to make them count while Belgium will now take a stranglehold on Group F after Croatia and Morocco played out a scoreless draw earlier this morning.