Belgium and Slovenia share Group 8 spoils
Monday, September 26, 2011
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Thorgan Hazard inspired Belgium to edge out section hosts Slovenia for first place in qualifying Group 8, the leading pair proving too strong for Wales and Scotland.
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Belgium and mini-tournament hosts Slovenia earned their places in November's elite round draw after coming out comfortably on top in UEFA European Under-19 Championship qualifying round Group 8.
Thorgan Hazard, the younger brother of LOSC Lille Métropole playmaker Eden Hazard, proved to be the star of the mini-tournament, scoring three times as Belgium beat Wales 3-0 and Scotland 3-1 either side of a goalless draw against the hosts. Slovenia trailed Scotland in their opening game but struck back after the break in Bistrica to win 2-1, Matej Pučko hitting the winner, and it took a goal from captain Nejc Praprotnik to earn them a 3-2 win against Wales on the final day.
Scotland finished in third place thanks to a 3-1 win against Wales on matchday two. The seven sides who come through the elite round will join hosts Estonia at next summer's final tournament from 3-15 July.