Romelu Lukaku is one of the good guys.
Backed by many to finish the 2018 World Cup as its top scorer, the Manchester United striker scored a brace for Belgium in their opening game win over Panama last week.
By half-time in their second game, he’d added another two goals to his tally, helping his team to a 3-1 lead over Tunisia at the interval, with Roberto Martinez’s side eventually winning 5-2.
Although both goals were tidy finishes from the former Chelsea and Everton player, many chose to praise him for his act of sportsmanship midway through half.
In between his two goals, Lukaku attempted to round Tunisia’s goalkeeper when played through in the box. His touch was heavy and after minimal contact, he went to ground. No penalty was given, although Lukaku was quick to make clear that he hadn’t been fouled almost as soon as he was on the floor – making a point of stressing this to the referee.
Plenty of those watching were quick to recognise Lukaku’s act of fair play.
https://twitter.com/iamscholes/status/1010507972160696320
Fair play Lukaku. Love seeing players show sportsmanship, especially in this day and age.
— Josh Sands (@joshsands91) June 23, 2018
Lukaku telling the ref that wasn't a penalty. That's the way football should be rather than trying to con the referee.. Fair play 👏👏
— Josh Adams (@Adams_191292) June 23, 2018
https://twitter.com/_benstark__/status/1010500268436393986
Beautiful to see Lukaku protecting the game by avoiding and explaining about a possible foul by the keeper, could have dived as most others would, admirable sportsmanship of the highest order
— gooner-wiz (@martinezwoowwoo) June 23, 2018
https://twitter.com/FredSZN/status/1010503102418571264
Well done Lukaku. Credit where its due. Refusing to con the ref just now was brilliant sportsmanship by him. Lets see more of this type of play from now on.👍#BELvTUN
— Nigel Owens MBE (@Nigelrefowens) June 23, 2018
Lukaku’s hopes of adding to his goal tally for the tournament came to an end in the second half when he was replaced by United teammate Marouane Fellaini. The striker had appeared to be hobbling slightly shortly before he came off, with Roberto Martinez likely to have made the change as a precaution.
Belgium move to the top of their group following their win over Tunisia, with England hoping to join them on six points when they face Panama on Sunday. Belgium’s final group game will see them play England in a match that is now likely to decide who tops the group.
