After the World Cup embarrassment | Belgium’s first top star resigns – soccer

The crash landing of the Red Devils has consequences…

After Belgium’s humiliating World Cup exit in the group stage, the team’s first top star is taking a toll: captain Eden Hazard (31) has ended his national team career.

The Real Madrid midfielder announced his decision on Instagram on Wednesday, writing: “Today the tide is turning… Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unparalleled support. For all the happiness we’ve shared since 2008, Thanks for that. I have decided to end my international career. The successor has been decided. I will miss you.”

Hazard made his debut for the Belgian national team in November 2008 at the age of 17. After a total of 126 international matches and 33 goals, it is over. Bitter: The striker, who belongs to the “golden generation” of desire, has not won any major titles with the national team.

Belgium still missed out on the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, although the country made at least the quarter-finals in every tournament until the latter year, but never achieved major success. The third place in the World Cup four and a half years ago in Russia was the biggest success.

After an early end to the group stage, a big change is imminent. Coach Roberto Martínez announced his end as coach of Rode Duivels shortly after the last group game (0:0) against Croatia. Furthermore, the team in Qatar became overmatched and divided. Hazard’s resignation will not be the last wm Live.

In Qatar, Hazard started the first two group games against Canada (1–0) and Morocco (0–2), but failed to impress. Result: in the decisive game against Croatia (0-0), coach Martínez put him on the bench, it was enough for only one small task.

Things are not going well for Hazard while out with the national team – and at the club too. The Belgian has featured in just six matches for Real Madrid this season. His departure to Los Blancos is expected soon …