Frankfurt, Germany: Belgium suffered a surprising 1-0 defeat to Slovakia in a dramatic Group D encounter at Euro 2024, marked by two disallowed goals for Romelu Lukaku following VAR reviews.

Slovakia took the lead early in the seventh minute through Ivan Schranz. Despite Belgium's efforts, including numerous chances created by star players like Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, they failed to convert. Lukaku, in particular, had two goals ruled out by VAR in the second half—a first for offside and a second for a handball by Loïs Openda in the build-up.

The decisive moment came in the 62nd minute when Slovakia's Dávid Hancko made a crucial goal-line block, despite sustaining an injury in the process, denying Belgium an equalizer. Johan Bakayoko also came close to scoring for Slovakia shortly after Lukaku's first disallowed goal.

Under coach Domenico Tedesco, Belgium suffered their first defeat in 15 matches and now faces Romania next. Meanwhile, Slovakia, managed by Italian coach Francesco Calzona, celebrated a historic victory at the Euros.

The upset unfolded in Frankfurt, adding to the day's surprises after Romania's convincing 3-0 win over Ukraine earlier in Munich. Slovakia's next challenge will be against Ukraine in Duesseldorf, while Belgium looks to bounce back against Romania in Cologne. AP