'Too clever' Eni Aluko slams Manchester City star Jeremy Doku for his part in Slovakia goal against Belgium
Jeremy Doku's performance in the first half was widely criticised by Eni Aluko during ITV's coverage
Eni Aluko believes Jeremy Doku was being 'too clever' as Slovakia shot into a first-half lead against Belgium at Euro 2024.
The Manchester City star attempted to weave his way out of trouble before his wayward pass across the penalty box meant Francesco Calzona's side pounced with devastating effect.
After Koen Casteels made a strong initial save, the rebound was tapped in by Ivan Schranz from close range, handing Slovakia an early advantage.
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Speaking via ITV's coverage from Germany, Aluko believed it was neither the time, or the place, for Doku to be attempting to dribble his way out of danger.
"That's not the position you want to see [Jeremy] Doku dribbling, it is too clever," she began. He is trying to be too casual and then he gets caught in two minds. Slovakia capitalise, it is a great flick and finish.
"It gives Slovakia something to hang onto because Belgium have created a lot of chances."
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With stars including Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne and Amadou Onana all on show for Domenico Tedesco's side, Belgium's early display won't have filled supporters with joy.
Often labelled the golden generation of Belgian football, Slovakia's stern defensive display saw them hold on to cause a massive upset and defeat the Belgian's 1-0, throwing Group F wide open.
"They have had their chance but last little bit, that final connection is lacking. certainly from Lukaku who had chances," added Aluko at half-time.
"He could have brought the game level and Doku, when he dribbles higher up the pitch, he is unstoppable. His touch, high up the pitch, this is where you want him to do his stuff."
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Matthew is a Freelance Journalist and has racked up bylines for Manchester United, Manchester Evening News, GOAL and SPORTbible to name a few. A long-term sufferer of Scunthorpe United, he currently resides in the north-west after escaping the smog of North Lincolnshire.