Belgium celebrates despite loss to Argentina

World Today

Argentina defeated Belgium one to nothing to advance to the World Cup semifinals in Brazil. Despite the defeat, there was still plenty to celebrate on the streets of Brussels. CCTV’s Jack Barton has more.

The two sides hadn’t met since 1986 when Argentina defeated Belgium in the semifinals before going on to win the World Cup. This was a real test for Belgium, a talented, but young squad with no international experience that had nevertheless managed to advance by defeating Russia, South Korea, the U.S. and Algeria.
They are all good teams, but none with the attacking strength of Argentina or with players as good as Lionel Messi, but it was Gonzalo Higuain’s half volley which gave Argentina an early lead and the only goal it needed. At halftime, Belgian supporters were trying to contain their nerves. More than a quarter of a million Belgians gathered in front of giant screens like this one across the country. Television viewing figures for Belgian games have been an astonishing 85 percent.The team known here as the Red Devils fought back, but Argentina’s defense held. When the final whistle blew, Belgian fans applauded as if their team had won. Neither the defeat or the rain could dampen their spirits. They were proud that their team had put the country back on the soccer map. And many here believe this upcoming team will be even stronger for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

Belgium celebrates despite loss to Argentina

Argentina defeated Belgium one to nothing to advance to the World Cup semifinals in Brazil. Despite the defeat, there was still plenty to celebrate on the streets of Brussels. CCTV's Jack Barton has more.