With the help of Yannick Carrasco's goal, Belgium defeated Azerbaijan 1-0 despite an unsuitable playing surface and sweltering heat.
In spite of an unfavourable playing surface and sweltering conditions, Yannick Carrasco's fortunate goal helped injury-plagued Belgium win 1-0 in Azerbaijan on Saturday and take first place in Group F of the European Championship qualification tournament.
Belgium surpassed Austria on goal differential with 10 points after four games.
Even though Romelu Lukaku had only played 20 minutes of club football this season, Belgium attempted to attack right away, with Leandro Trossard hitting the post following a deft pass from him. However, Belgium had few opportunities in a lacklustre first-half effort.
But it did score a fortunate goal in the 38th minute when Johan Bakayoko's long-range drive touched an unprepared Carrasco, changing the ball's course and fooling the home custodian.
Due to long-term injuries, Belgium was missing its starting custodian Thibaut Courtois and midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, but they still showed late grit after making adjustments, with Jeremy Doku, a new addition for Manchester City, coming dangerously near to scoring a second.
