Red Devils move to final 16 with win over Sweden

A late goal by Radja Nainggolan earned Belgium a 1-0 victory over Sweden on Wednesday night, and a second round tie against Hungary. The winning goal arrived in the 84th minute, as Nainggolan let a 25-yard shot rip. It took a slight redirect and crept inside the far post, securing the three points for Belgium.

The Red Devils launched regular raids with Kevin De Bruyne through the middle and Eden Hazard, roving from wing to wing, at the heart of the danger. But it was only when Roma midfielder Nainggolan took control of Hazard’s cross that Belgium’s pressure brought a result.

The victory marked the end of Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s international career: the superstar had vowed to retire from Swedish duty after the game. His final minutes in the yellow shirt were marked by Belgian fans raucously chanting “Bye Bye Ibrahimovic!”

Belgium’s opponent in the knockout phase, Hungary, emerged top in a group that featured Portugal, Austria and Iceland. They play on Sunday night in Toulouse for a place in the quarter finals against the winner of the Wales and Northern Ireland tie.

Photo, from left: Dries Mertens, Radja Nainggolan and Kevin De Bruyne following Nainggolan’s winning goal against Sweden. ©AFP/BELGA