Kevin De Bruyne says he “can still contribute” to Belgium after scoring twice in a 3-0 Nations League victory over Turkiye.
The midfielder produced two outstanding finishes at Stade Maurice Dufrasne on Friday, before Romelu Lukaku completed the scoring to give Mark van Bommel’s side a convincing win.
De Bruyne opened the scoring by nutmegging Abdulkerim Bardakci and then finding the bottom-right corner with a low finish. His second goal was even more impressive, as he curled the ball into the top-left corner from distance.
The Napoli midfielder was also influential in creating opportunities, making three chances for his team. Only Mika Godts, with four, created more for Belgium. De Bruyne won five of his 10 duels before being substituted in the 82nd minute.
His contribution means he has now been directly involved in three goals – two goals and one assist – across Belgium’s three Nations League matches during this international break.
The 35-year-old said he remains motivated to help a Belgium team that includes a number of younger players.
“I try to lead by example for the younger players, and they follow easily,” De Bruyne said.
“I feel I can still contribute. I am enjoying myself, and that is the main thing.”
Belgium finished the match with an expected goals (xG) figure of 1.58, compared with Turkiye’s 1.38, although the visitors missed several promising chances. Merih Demiral came closest just before half-time.
Belgium also struck the woodwork twice through Dodi Lukebakio, while Hans Vanaken was denied when goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir kept out his clever flick.
Captain Youri Tielemans said Belgium’s priority had been to secure victory on home soil, but accepted there was room for improvement in attack.
“Winning at home was our goal,” said Tielemans.
“It was an open game, but we took our chances and could have scored even more.
“They played very openly, leaving a lot of space in midfield. In the final third, we still need to make better decisions.”
Belgium will finish the international break with an away match against France on Monday. Victory in that game would move Van Bommel’s side to the top of Nations League Group A1.