De Bruyne 'can still contribute' for Belgium

De Bruyne struck two stunning goals at Stade Maurice Dufrasne on Friday, with Romelu Lukaku also on target as Belgium secured victory.

His first came after he nutmegged Abdulkerim Bardakci and fired into the bottom-right corner. His second was even better: a curling effort from distance into the top-left corner.

The Napoli midfielder created three chances, a tally bettered only by Mika Godts’ four for Belgium, and won five of his 10 duels before being replaced in the 82nd minute.

The 35-year-old has now contributed directly to three goals — two goals and one assist — in as many Nations League games during this international break for Mark van Bommel’s side.

“I try to lead by example for the younger players, and they follow easily,” De Bruyne said.

The scoreline was emphatic, though Turkiye missed some good chances, most notably through Merih Demiral just before half-time.

Belgium also threatened further goals. Dodi Lukebakio twice struck the woodwork, while Hans Vanaken saw a clever flick kept out by Ugurcan Cakir.

“Winning at home was our goal,” said Belgium captain Youri Tielemans. “It was an open game, but we took our chances and could have scored even more.

“They played very openly, leaving a lot of space in midfield. In the final third, we still need to make better decisions.”