It was an interesting night for the two Aston Villa stars on show at Wembley, as Ezri Konsa and Youri Tielemans battled in England’s 2-2 draw with Belgium.
It’s been a disappointing international break for England, who have failed to win over their two friendlies against Brazil and Belgium.
Last night, the Three Lions earned a last-gasp 2-2 draw at Wembley against Belgium as Ezri Konsa made his full debut for Gareth Southgate’s side.
On the Aston Villa front, Ollie Watkins missed out as Ivan Toney was given a chance to shine however, it wasn’t a Villa representative from the England squad that caught the attention of many for his dazzling display.
Youri Tielemans stole the show in England v Belgium
If it wasn’t for Jude Bellingham’s 95th-minute equaliser, Youri Tielemans would have been crowned as Belgium’s match-winner, scoring both of his country’s goals.
Some will say it was a scuff and some will say it was a clever finish for the 26-year-old’s first goal as he deceived Jordan Pickford to put the visitors ahead.
The second goal was a thing of mastery from Belgium, with Tielemans expertly heading Romelu Lukaku’s exquisite cross into the net.
Aside from being the finisher of both goals, the Villa man had an overall outstanding night at Wembley, which was branded his ‘playground’ by Belgian media.
Het Laatste Nieuws handed the midfielder a stellar 8/10 rating, giving the Premier League jewel high praise.
“Like a fish in the water – the rain, so to speak – of London. Wembley was his playground. The passing was clean, two goals. Youri was excellent.”
As per Sofascore, Tielemans capped off his two goals with a rounded display, making two key passes, completing 100% of his dribbles and winning three ground duels in 71 minutes.
Unai Emery will hope to see Youri Tielemans end the season well
It’s been a difficult season for Tielemans, who had to fight for a way into Unai Emery’s side after making the move from Leicester City in the summer.
Midway through the season, the 26-year-old found sanctuary playing high up the pitch alongside Watkins however, due to squad shortages, the Belgian has recently been pulled back to help in midfield.
After seeing his performance last night, Emery may even be tempted to field the Belgium international as a striker, pulling off two impressive finishes.
With only one goal and four assists in the Premier League this term, it will be hoped that the Villa ace can end the 2023/24 campaign on a high, with a display like last night’s sure to please the Villans if he can replicate it domestically.
