Ukraine staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Belgium 3-1 in the first leg of their Nations League playoff on Thursday, putting themselves in a strong position to secure promotion to the competition’s top tier.
Belgium took the lead in the 40th minute, with Romelu Lukaku scoring a header from a Kevin De Bruyne free kick in what was coach Rudi Garcia’s first game at the helm. The visitors looked poised to take control as they entered the break with the advantage, but Ukraine had other plans for the second half.
In the 66th minute, Ukraine capitalized on a defensive mistake by Belgium when Oleksiy Hutsulyak pounced on a loose ball and fired home to equalize. The momentum shifted, and just minutes later, Vladyslav Vanat found himself in the right place at the right time, scoring from close range to put Ukraine in front.
With the Belgian defense struggling to cope, Ukraine sealed their comeback in spectacular fashion. Ilya Zabarnyi added a third with an acrobatic first-touch finish that left Belgium with little hope of a response.
The victory puts Ukraine in a commanding position ahead of the second leg as they look to advance to the top tier of the Nations League.
