Netherlands Whip the ‘Devil’ Out of Belgium in UEFA Nations League Opener

• The Netherlands made light work of Belgium in Brussels when the Dutch hammered their neighbours 4-1 in the Nations League opener
• It was the first win for the Dutch over the star-studded Belgium opponents for the first time since September 5, 1997
• Belgium's crashing defeat to Holland is their first loss since stumbling to a 2-1 loss to European champions Italy in October 2021

The Netherlands kicked off their 2022-23 UEFA Nations League campaign on a flying note when the Oranjes dispatched Belgium with ease at the King Baudouin Stadium on Friday, June 3.

A brace from Barcelona forward Memphis Depay and solitary strikes from Denzel Dumfries and Steven Bergwijn ensured the Dutch began their Nations League on an impressive note.

It was the Red Devils who started brightly with Timothy Castagne's effort crashing off the post to signal the intention of the home side after 14 minutes.

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But from then on, the Dutch neutralized the home side to churn out their own opportunities and came close on two occasions in a space of seven minutes as Steven Bergwijn's pile driver was smothered away by former Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet in the 24th minute.

Belgium were dealt a huge blow when marksman Romelu Lukaku had to be substituted after he picked up an injury three minutes to the half-hour mark.

With four minutes left for recess, wantaway Spurs winger Bergwijn drew first blood for the visitors when he collected a well-weighted pass from De Jong before rifling an unstoppable drive beyond Mignolet.

After recess, the three-time World Cup losing finalists doubled their lead through Manchester United flop Memphis Depay with a wonderful finish after 51 minutes.

The Dutch continued their rampage and scored two goals in quick succession as Depay grabbed his personal brace and his team's third before Dumfries made it four in the 66th minute.

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A raft of changes by Belgian manager Roberto Martinez could not help muster a fightback as Castagne's goal was ruled out for offside.

Substitute Batshuayi grabbed a consolation in additional time with the Dutch holding on to record a comprehensive victory over their neighbours.

Spain and Portugal share the spoils in a thrilling draw

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Spain have kicked off their campaign in the Nations League on an impressive note as Alvaro Morata scored the goal in their 1-1 draw against Portugal on Thursday night, 2 June.

The encounter between Spain and Portugal is expected to be tough and it was truly as players of both nations gave themselves a tough challenge in the battle.

Luis Enrique and his wards started the duel impressively looking for an early, but they had to wait until the 25th minute before scoring through Alvaro Morata who was assisted by Sarabia.