Axel Witsel (L front) of Belgium vies with Edgar Barcenas (1st R) of Panama during a group G match between Belgium and Panama at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Sochi, Russia, June 18, 2018. (Xinhua/Du Yu)
Three beautifully crafted goals in the second half helped Belgium defeat Panama 3-0 in the opening match of the World Cup Group G actions here on Monday.
Panama staged an encouraging first-half performance on their World Cup debut as they held Belgium's talented team to a 0-0 draw at halftime.
After struggling to find the net before halftime, Belgium needed only two minutes to open the scoring in the second half as Dries Mertens struck home with a superb volley.
Romelu Lukaku hit double in the 69th and 75th minute to increase Belgians' advantage.
Belgium now go top of Group G, with Tunisia playing England later on Monday.
