FIFA World Cup: Belgium beat wasteful Canada to top World Cup Group F

Canada returned to the tournament after 36 years and made a solid start to its campaign. They dominated the world's second-ranked team but couldn't win because of Batshuayi's goal in the 44th minute. 

Belgium were lackluster throughout and had only nine attempts on goal in contrast to Canada's 21. They adopted a 5-2-3 system and maintained a constant high line that robbed the opponents of crucial breathing space.

If not for Thibaut Courtois' save in the 11th minute, Alphonso Davies could have netted for his side. Kevin de Bruyne, who had an ordinary outing, was shockingly named Man of the Match. 

Have Belgium's Golden Generation football fallen now?

Belgium's golden generation have entered its last straw. Eden Hazard, one of the world's best players in 2018, has lost his mojo. Belgium's top defenders have retired or crossed their peak form. 

Belgium now have Thibaut Courtois and Kevin De Bruyne to rely on, apart from considerable assistance from Timothy Castagne and Yannick Carasco on either flank.

Now that Hazard's form and fitness are in question, Batshuayi, who scored against Canada, is expected to bolster the squad. Belgium's midfield has Axel Witsel, Youri Tielemans, and Hans Vanaken. 

Their defense lineup has two players in their mid-thirties - Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld - which means they need to make way for energetic youth. These signs indicate the slow and gradual decline of Belgium's Golden Generation.