Euro 2016: Belgians whip up Irish cream

Romelu Lukaku silenced his critics with a brace as Belgium kick-started their Euro 2016 campaign by comfortably beating the Republic of Ireland 3-0 in Bordeaux on Saturday.

After being frustrated by the Irish in the first half, Belgium broke through when Lukaku struck three minutes after the restart, atoning for his profligacy in front of goal in Monday’s 0-2 loss to Italy.

Midfielder Axel Witsel headed home in the 61st minute and Lukaku got his second and Belgium's third 20 minutes from the end as Belgium came good at last, albeit against a limited Ireland team who worked hard but created little.

The result put Belgium in prime position to qualify for the last 16 from Group E and also confirmed Italy as group winners, a day after the Azzurri secured their progress to the next round with a 1-0 victory over Sweden.

More than anything the win should reinvigorate Marc Wilmots' Belgium side before their last match with the Swedes and will certainly boost the confidence of Everton striker Lukaku.