Romelu Lukaku extended his impressive scoring record with Belgium to salvage a 1-1 draw against Czech Republic in their World Cup qualifier on Saturday.
Facing an inspired Czech team which hit the woodwork twice, Belgium struggled defensively and conceded early in the second half. Lukaku, Belgium’s all-time leading scorer, then took his tally to 59 goals in 91 international matches after Kevin De Bruyne’s brilliant assist.
Both Belgium and Czech Republic had won their opening games in Group E.
Playing without Borussia Dortmund’s Thomas Meunier and Thorgan Hazard who were not authorized to make the trip to Prague because of German quarantine rules Belgium dominated possession in an entertaining first half but the hosts had the better chances.
The Czechs missed four Bundesliga players because of the virus restrictions in Germany, including their first-choice goalkeeper, but it did not show.
The hosts deservedly took the lead in the 50th minute when Lukas Provod was given too much space near the area with Dendoncker and Denayer both too slow to move forward and he unleashed a long-range strike into the far corner.
Earlier, Belarus twice came from behind to kick off its World Cup qualification campaign with a 4-2 win over 10-man Estonia, which slumped to a second consecutive loss following a 6-2 route at the hands of the Czechs midweek.
