Belgium came out on top against an impressive Canada side, who will feel extremely unfortunate to not have come away with anything. 

Michy Batshuayi put the Red Devils in front with just a few moments remaining of the first half, a goal which would go on to be the deciding moment in the game at the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium. 

Canada had a chance to go in front after eleven minutes, after referee Janny Sikazwe gave the North American side a penalty. A volley from Tajon Buchanan hit the arm of Yannick Carrasco, giving John Herdman's side a chance from the spot.

Bayern Munich full-back Alphonso Davies stepped up for Canada, only for the penalty to be well saved by Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. The Real Madrid goalkeeper dived low to keep Davies out, and keep the game goalless. 

Batshuayi's powerful shot past Canada goalkeeper Milan Borjan gave the Belgians all three points in Group F, despite a brilliant display by Canada. 
 

  • Canadian pride

Canada boss John Herdman spoke to BBC Sport after the game in Qatar and praised his players after the game despite the unfortunate loss against the Red Devils:

"I'm proud of the performance but you need to take three points in your first game.

"These lads put a shift in, they showed that they can live on this stage. They made the fans proud and made them feel like they belong here and that was important for us."

Speaking ahead of their game against Croatia: "With that belief and keeping the brotherhood tight, we've got a chance."

Alphonso Davies also spoke after the game to BEIN Sports:

"It feels good, stepping out on the pitch today was a dream come true for everyone"

"It wasn't easy, we took the fight to them" 

Belgium boss Roberto Martinez also spoke to BBC Sport after the game, and spoke upon a less than convincing display by his team despite the victory:

"It's a win and we need to play better and to grow. We've been here five days, we have to grow with these games. Many top teams are losing games.

"Today we didn't win by our normal talent and quality on the ball, but you don't win in the World Cup if you don't do the other side of the game. 

"We need to be realistic, we need to play well but when a team can win without playing well, it's a lot to build on."

Belgium will look to improve in their next game against Morocco on Sunday, whilst Canada face Croatia in the other game in the group, with John Herdman's side looking for a positive outcome going into the last group game.