SAN FRANCISCO, November 11, (THEWILL) – Crystal Palace’s centre forward Michy Batshuayi scored a brace for Belgium as the number one FIFA-ranked team in the world struggled to a 2-1 win over Switzerland in a low-key international friendly on Wednesday.
With 12 minutes on the clock at the Den Dreef Stadion in Leuven, Wolfsburg’s right winger Admir Mehmedi gave the Swiss the lead with a crisp low finish that Belgium goalkeeper Simon Mignolet of Club Brugge could do nothing about.
With attempts to level the game in the first half by Leander Dendoncker, Thorgan Hazard and Dodi Lukebakio going without success and the chance to double the lead by Eintracht Frankfurt left midfielder Zuber being blocked, the first 45 minutes ended with Switzerland in the lead.
However, Batshuayi equalised for Belgium early in the second half with an angled finish after an intelligent pass from substitute Leicester City central attacking midfielder Youri Tielemans.
The 27-year-old striker scored again in the 71st minute to take his international tally to 21 goals for Belgium. His second of the game was a shot on the turn from close range with 20 minutes left. Belgium held on to seal victory.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
