Belgium secure Nations League survival with victory over Ukraine
Belgium will remain in the top tier of the UEFA Nations League after a 3-0 victory over Ukraine in Genk on Sunday evening. Two goals from Romelu Lukaku and one from Maxim De Cuyper saw the Red Devils overturn a 3-1 first-leg deficit, ensuring Belgium’s place in League A for the fifth consecutive season.
Belgium facing the prospect of relegation after their disastrous defeat in Murcia last Thursday. Despite dominating much of the return leg, they struggled to break down a resolute Ukrainian defence for 70 minutes. However, a tactical switch and fresh legs proved decisive. Substitute De Cuyper broke the deadlock before Lukaku sealed the turnaround.
The dramatic survival means Belgium will once again compete in the top tier of the Nations League when the competition returns in autumn 2026, following the World Cup in North America.
The Red Devils’ best performance remains their 2021 semi-final appearance, where they lost to France and finished fourth.
With Belgium finishing 10th overall in this Nations League cycle, they are expected to be in Pot 3 for the next tournament’s draw in early 2026. The competition will feature 16 teams in League A, with group-stage matches taking place from September to November 2026.
The top two teams from each group will progress to the quarter-finals, while the bottom-placed teams will be relegated.
Belgium's Romelu Lukaku © PHOTO JOHN THYS / AFP
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