World Cup

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World Cup | Qualifiers

Jun 7, 2013 at 7.45pm UK

Belgium
2-1
Serbia Serbia

Belgium earn crucial Group A win over Serbia

By Simon Sinclair, Reporter

Published: June 7 2013 | 22:02

Last updated: June 8 2013 | 11:28

Belgium move three points clear of second place Croatia in Group A as they beat Serbia 2-1 thanks to goals from Kevin de Bruyne and Marouane Fellaini.

Belgium have secured a vital 2-1 victory over Serbia in their Group A World Cup qualifying clash as they move three points clear of Croatia in second place.

The hosts took the lead in the 13th minute when Kevin de Bruyne found space in the six-yard box and headed Jan Vertonghen's cross into the net.

Belgium's Kevin De Bruyne celebrates after he scored against Serbia during their World Cup qualifying match on June 7, 2013 © AP Photos

Serbia almost got back into the game when Branislav Ivanovic fired the ball just wide of the post after Aleksander Kolarov's cross wasn't cleared in the penalty area.

Just before half time, Marouane Fellaini came close to doubling Belgium's lead but he could only head his effort from Vertonghen's cross straight at Vladimir Stojkovic.

However, Fellaini did get his goal in the 60th minute as he headed the ball into the net from close range from De Bruyne's corner, leaving Stojkovic with no chance.

Serbia pressed to get back into the game and had a couple of efforts at Thibaut Courtois's goal but both were comfortably saved by the Belgium stopper.

Three minutes from time, Kolarov did get a goal back for the visitors as he powered a free kick from outside the box past Courtois to give his side hope. However, Belgium defended stoutly and held out for the win.