Analysis: Top-ranked Belgium show their potential with classy display

Soccer Football - Euro 2020 - Group B - Belgium v Russia - Gazprom Arena, Saint Petersburg, Russia - June 12, 2021 Belgium players celebrate after the match Pool via REUTERS/Evgenia Novozhenina

ST PETERSBURG, Russia (Reuters) - Being top of the FIFA world rankings meant Belgium were always going to be among the European Championship favourites but Saturday’s comfortable 3-0 win over Russia sent out a strong reminder of their potential.

Although it was not an overwhelming performance, it underlined the efficiency and depth of a Belgium side who were rarely stretched and played well within themselves, yet emerged comfortable victors.