Belgium opens with 2-1 comeback win over Algeria
Belgium’s Marouane Fellaini celebrates after scoring his side’s first goal during the group H World Cup soccer match between Belgium and Algeria at the Mineirao Stadium in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Tuesday, June 17, 2014. AP
BELO HORIZONTE, Brazil — Belgium opened its World Cup Group H campaign with a 2-1 comeback win over Algeria on Tuesday, relying on second-half goals from two substitutes.
Marouane Fellaini’s strong glancing header in the 70th minute with his back to goal came from a Kevin De Bruyne cross. Fellaini had only come onto the pitch five minutes earlier and was coach Marc Wilmots’ final substitution.
Ten minutes later, Dries Mertens’ shot beat Algeria’s goalkeeper from close range after Eden Hazard set him up for the decider. Mertens came on at the start of the second half.
Algeria attacking midfielder Sofiane Feghouli converted a penalty to give his country a surprise lead in the 25th.
RELATED STORIES
US emerges bloodied and victorious against Ghana
Azkals pick Brazil, Spain to win 2014 FIFA World Cup
Jennifer Lopez pulls out of World Cup opening ceremony
