Michy Batshuayi scored in Belgium’s European Championship qualifier against Cyprus, adding to his impressive Premier League form with Crystal Palace.
Belgium manager Roberto Martinez has praised Michy Batshuayi after the Crystal Palace striker scored in Sunday’s 2-0 European Championship qualifier away in Cyprus, as reported by RTL.
Batshuayi has been in impressive form since joining Crystal Palace on loan from Chelsea in the January transfer window, scoring three times in his last five games before the international break.
But the former Marseille front-man, who moved to Stamford Bridge for £33 million in 2016 (Guardian), looked to have missed his chance quite literally when Belgium hosted Russia on Thursday.
The 25-year-old struggled to make an impact as a lone forward and also hit the post with an excellent chance late on, meaning he was a target for plenty of critics after the game.
Though Batshuayi silenced his doubters three days later, rounding the Cyprus goalkeeper to score his 12th international goal and seal a comfortable win for an impressed Roberto Martinez.
“Michy Batshuayi worked very hard for the team,” the former Everton and Wigan Athletic manager told RTL.
“We knew he’d take his chance. Against Russia he was not lucky but he scored here.”
Batshuayi has had to contend with plenty of critics throughout his career, particularly during a frustrating spell at Chelsea and during a forgettable time on loan at Valencia.
But he is capable of scoring goals at a reliable rate when he is playing with confidence and Batshuayi deserves credit for not letting his head drop after that disappointing outing against Russia.
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