NACER CHADLI set an unwanted record in Belgium’s Euro 2020 quarter-final with Italy on Friday – becoming the quickest substitute of the tournament.
The former Tottenham forward came on in the 70th minute with his team in desperate need of a goal to take the match into extra time.
But just a mere four minutes later, the 31-year-old was hobbling off the pitch after suffering what appeared to be a muscular injury.
Footy fans couldn’t help but comment on Chadli’s unfortunate withdrawal from the match, with one saying: “Sorry for my akh Nacer Chadli, muscle injuries are the worst that come.”
Another said: “Chadli has to be the quickest sub to be subbed.”
And another said: “Chadli with the Adam Lallana award for being injured as a sub.”
One remarked: “Nacer Chadli coming on for only 5 mins and then subbed off cause of injury. Hard luck.”
Roberto Martinez’s side were dumped out of the tournament courtesy of a 2-1 defeat to the Azzuri.
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First-half goals from Nicolo Barella and Lorenzo Insigne booked Roberto Mancini’s side a place in the final four of the tournament.
Inter Milan hitman Romelu Lukaku pulled a goal back for the Red Devils just before half-time from the penalty sport.
But the Belgians were unable to create enough clear-cut chances to draw themselves level.
Speaking after the final whistle, Napoli’s Insigne said: “I think every single player in the team played an incredible game tonight.
“I always try that shot, in games and in training. I’m happy it went in.
“It was a great goal but I repeat, we won all together tonight.”
Elated Azzuri keeper Donnarumma chimed in: “We won as a team, this is an extraordinary group.
“I still have to watch that save from [Kevin] De Bruyne back but we are here just to give our best and give Italians joy.”
The high-flying Italians will meet three-time tournament winners Spain for a place in next Sunday’s final.
Their eagerly-anticipated clash will be a rematch of the 2012 final in Kiev, where the Spaniards thumped Cesare Prandelli’s 4-0 to claim their third European Championship.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
