Belgium Held by Iran, Drawing Sharp Home Criticism

Belgium played Iran in the second round of the World Cup and drew 0-0, extending a run of disappointment in major tournaments. It was Belgium’s second draw in the tournament so far, and the result triggered harsh criticism back home.

The Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad wrote that the team “does not miss an opportunity to miss,” calling it “another performance we will want to forget.” The same report blasted defender Nathan Ngoy for what it described as a reckless red card, saying he had “abandoned the team” and “should not play anymore.”

HLN was also highly critical, calling it a difficult result and saying Belgium had “gotten themselves into trouble in an easy group.” The site added that people do not understand how this keeps happening every tournament.

The frustration comes as Belgium’s golden generation nears its end. Kevin De Bruyne is 34, Romelu Lukaku is 33, Thibaut Courtois is 34, and Eden Hazard has already retired. In Belgium, hopes were tied to a decent farewell run for the veteran core in what was seen as a favorable draw, but so far the country is left disappointed.