Scotland's road to Rio de Janeiro looks to have all but ended after a 2-0 defeat in Belgium.

The hosts dominated the game from start to finish and finally broke the Scots' resilience midway through the second half after a head from Christian Benteke and a thunderous shout from Vincent Kompany.

So, was it as one-sided as the statistics suggest? Sports Mole takes a closer look at the 90 minutes.

Match statistics:

Belgium:
Shots 19
On target 8
Possession 65%
Corners 6
Fouls 15

Scotland:
Shots 5
On target 3
Possession 35%
Corners 3
Fouls 10

Was the result fair?

Without question, Belgium deserved nothing less than all three points. They were in the ascendency from the first whistle and showed why they are considered as one of Europe's brightest international teams. Had it not been for Allan McGregor then the scoreline could have been embarrassing.

Belgium's performance

The Belgians proved why they should be tipped as favourites to win Group A. They oozed talent all over the pitch and barely gave Scotland a sniff of goal. A defence that included Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen and Jan Vertonghen seemed comfortable throughout, and they controlled the game from start to finish.

Scotland's performance

It was always going to be an uphill struggle for the Scots against a very talented Belgian side. They spent most of the game chasing the ball and rarely threatened Thibaut Courtois's goal. They had a few chances from free kicks, but they were ultimately beaten by a much better side.

Sports Mole's man of the match

Vincent Kompany: The Manchester City captain had a great game. He looked in control throughout the match, kept a clean sheet and even managed to score a belter to secure the points.

Referee performance

Mauricio Morales didn't have too much to do in all honesty. Scotland couldn't get the ball off Belgium for most of the match, so few decisions were actually required of the official. He handed out a few necessary yellow cards and enjoyed a game where he wasn't really noticed.

What next?

Belgium: Three points here ensure that the Belgians remain at the top of Group A, ahead of Croatia on goal difference. Next up for them is a trip to Macedonia in March where they will expecting to extend their unbeaten streak.

Scotland: You would like to think that the only way is up for the Scots having slipped to the foot of the table following this defeat. They travel to Serbia in March with or without Craig Levein.

Written by
Matt Cotton