Belgian fans cheer after Belgium scored a goal as they watch the soccer match on a giant screen in the Grote Markt in Antwerp, Belgium on Sunday, June 22, 2014. Belgium scored a 1-0 victory over Russia during the group H World Cup soccer match between Belgium and Russia at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo) (The Associated Press)
RIO DE JANEIRO – First came boos and whistles. And then, a Brazilian taunt cascaded down the stands of the Maracana stadium — "Little team, your place is in the second division."
The Belgians had felt honored to play at the famous stadium but the local fans didn't exactly return the love during Belgium's struggling 1-0 win over Russia at the World Cup.
One day later, the Belgium squad is cherishing the competition points and two victories that have ensured their passage to knockout phase. But after much pre-tournament hype, fans will still be looking for more. How about a little style?
Belgium coach Marc Wilmots says "there will always be something to complain about," and notes that fans of already eliminated Spain and England had more reason to be glum.
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