Kevin De Bruyne was all smiles (and sweat) as another display of sheer quality helped Belgium to a 6-1 win over Cyprus that concluded their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign.
On social media, the Manchester City midfielder shared a picture of the team celebrating a goal that read 30/30 - a nod to the maximum points they had achieved during qualifying.
Away from the front though, he was less impressed. Not with his own form or his team : Belgium's place at next summer's tournament had rarely been in doubt and they became the first team to qualify when a 9-0 win over San Marino in October saw them over the line with three games to spare.
However, with all qualifiers played Belgium not only know they will be in the tournament but almost their exact itinerary; for a number of reasons, their place in Group B with Russia, Denmark and AN Other is set before a draw has been made.
If that will allow Roberto Martinez extra time to scout the opposition, it doesn't sit right with De Bruyne.
“It’s a disgrace," he told HLN Sport . "For me this feels like competition distortion. Football has become more and more a business. "
The full draw for the tournament takes place on November 30. De Bruyne is expected to be one of the stars, with Martinez believing the midfielder to be unique in world football and the 28-year-old currently enjoying an excellent and injury-free season with City.
