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Belgium: The Red Devils’ Surprise Run in the 1980 European Championship

June 20, 2024
Historical Series

Belgium, known for its rich footballing history and the talent it produces, experienced one of its most surprising and memorable moments during the 1980 European Championship. The tournament, held in Italy, was marked by the Belgian national team’s unexpected success, which saw them reach the final against all odds. This journey not only highlighted the resilience and skill of the Belgian team but also laid the groundwork for Belgium’s growing reputation in international football.

 

The 1980 European Championship was an eight-team tournament held in Italy. Belgium, managed by Guy Thys, was not considered one of the pre-tournament favorites. The team had qualified for the tournament by finishing top of their qualifying group, ahead of Austria, Portugal, and Scotland. Despite this success, few expected Belgium to make a significant impact on the tournament.

 

The Belgian squad featured a mix of experienced players and promising young talents. Key figures included goalkeeper Jean-Marie Pfaff, defender Eric Gerets, midfielder Jan Ceulemans, and forward Erwin Vandenbergh. These players would go on to become legends in Belgian football, but at the time, they were relatively unknown on the international stage.

 

 

Les Diables Rouges were placed in Group 2 alongside Italy, England, and Spain. This group was considered particularly tough, with Italy and England being strong contenders. However, Belgium’s tactical discipline and team spirit would prove to be decisive factors in their remarkable journey.

 

Belgium’s campaign in the 1980 European Championship began with a match against England. The game, played in Turin, ended in a 1-1 draw. England took the lead through Ray Wilkins, but Belgium equalized with a goal from Jan Ceulemans. The result was seen as a positive start for Belgium, as they had managed to hold one of the tournament favorites to a draw.

 

In their second group match, Belgium faced Spain in Milan. This match turned out to be one of the defining moments of Belgium’s campaign. Erwin Vandenbergh scored the only goal of the match, securing a 2-1 victory for Belgium. The win against Spain was crucial, boosting the team’s confidence and putting them in a strong position to advance to the semi-finals.

 

The final group match saw Belgium face the host nation, Italy, in Rome. In a tightly contested game, Belgium managed to secure a 0-0 draw, a result that was enough to see them top their group and advance to the semi-finals. This achievement was a significant surprise, as few had expected Belgium to progress from such a challenging group.

 

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In the semi-finals, Belgium faced Czechoslovakia, the defending European champions. The match, played in Naples, was another tightly contested affair. Belgium took the lead through a goal from Jan Ceulemans, but Czechoslovakia equalized, sending the match into extra time. In the additional period, Belgium’s persistence paid off as they scored twice to secure a 3-1 victory and advance to their first-ever major tournament final.

 

The final against West Germany, played in Rome, was a historic moment for Belgian football. Despite being the underdogs, Belgium put up a strong fight against a formidable West German team. West Germany took an early lead through Horst Hrubesch, but Belgium equalized with a penalty from René Vandereycken. As the match progressed, it looked like Belgium might hold on for a draw, but Hrubesch scored a late goal to give West Germany a 2-1 victory.

 

Despite the heartbreak of the final defeat, Belgium’s performance in the 1980 European Championship was celebrated as a remarkable achievement. The team’s journey to the final had captured the imagination of football fans and showcased the potential of Belgian football.

 

The 1980 European Championship had a lasting impact on Belgian football. The team’s unexpected success provided a significant boost to national pride and demonstrated that Belgium could compete with the best teams in Europe. The tournament also helped to raise the profile of Belgian players and increased interest in football across the country.

 

 

The performances of key players like Jean-Marie Pfaff, Eric Gerets, and Jan Ceulemans were particularly noteworthy. Pfaff’s goalkeeping heroics earned him recognition as one of the best goalkeepers in the world, while Gerets and Ceulemans established themselves as leaders and pivotal figures in Belgian football. Their contributions highlighted the talent within the Belgian squad and set a benchmark for future generations.

 

Guy Thys’s leadership and tactical acumen were also crucial to Belgium’s success. His ability to organize the team, instill discipline, and make effective strategic decisions was instrumental in navigating the challenges of the tournament. Thys’s management style and football philosophy laid the groundwork for the development of Belgian football in the subsequent decades.

 

The success of the 1980 European Championship also had broader implications for Belgian football development. The increased visibility and success of the national team led to greater investment in youth academies, facilities, and coaching. This commitment to development helped to nurture the next generation of Belgian talent and ensure the continued growth of football in the country.

 

As Belgium prepares for EURO 2024, the story of their remarkable journey in the 1980 European Championship serves as a powerful source of inspiration. The current generation of Belgian players can draw on the resilience, determination, and unity displayed by their predecessors. The narrative of their performance in 1980 highlights the importance of believing in one’s potential and playing with heart and conviction.

 

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The lessons learned from 1980, including the value of strong leadership, teamwork, and composure under pressure, remain relevant today. The Belgian squad, led by experienced players and guided by a capable coaching staff, can look back on this chapter of their history to remind themselves of what is possible with determination and belief.

 

Furthermore, the legacy of players like Jean-Marie Pfaff, Eric Gerets, and Jan Ceulemans continues to influence Belgian football philosophy. The emphasis on technical skill, disciplined defending, and effective teamwork remains central to the Belgian approach. The current team can build on this legacy, ensuring that the principles of the 1980 team are upheld and refined.

 

The passionate support of the Belgian fans, known for their unwavering loyalty and vibrant presence, will once again play a crucial role. The bond between the players and their supporters can create a formidable atmosphere, motivating the team to strive for excellence and aim for another successful campaign.

 

The 1980 European Championship and Belgium’s remarkable journey is a story of resilience, ambition, and national pride. For Belgium, it remains a source of inspiration and a reminder of the heights they can reach with determination and unity. As the team looks ahead to EURO 2024, the memories of 1980 will serve as a powerful motivator to write a new chapter in Belgian football history, one that fans hope will be filled with triumph and celebration.

 

 

Belgium’s journey in the 1980 European Championship showcases the nation’s ability to compete at the highest level and the enduring spirit of its players and fans. It is a testament to the passion and dedication that define Belgian football, providing a beacon of hope for future generations. As Belgium prepares to take on Europe once more, the legacy of 1980 will undoubtedly guide and inspire them to achieve greatness, reinforcing the belief that they can conquer any challenge that comes their way.

 

By: Juanjo Montero / @JJMont3ro

Featured Image: @GabFoligno / Getty Images

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