By Victor Kanayo
Eden Hazard on Wednesday December 7 announced his retirement from international football after Belgium’s unexpected exit from the ongoing 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The decision was reportedly made after his nation’s elimination from the tournament following a 0-0 draw with Croatia on matchday three.
Hazard, a Real Madrid player who revealed his decision via social media wrote, “A page turns today… Thank you for your love. Thank you for your unparalleled support. Thank you for all this happiness shared since 2008. I have decided to put an end to my international career.
“The succession is ready. I will miss you….”
Belgium was grouped alongside Croatia, Morocco, and Canada in Group F.
But while it was a very tricky group to navigate on paper, it was one Belgium were expected to break out of, considering the talent in their arsenal.
However, after scraping past Canada, Belgium were soundly beaten 2-0 by Morocco and could only muster a 0-0 draw against Croatia.
And with the inquest into their World Cup disaster only just beginning, the former Chelsea star revealed he will no longer play for his country.
Hazard retires with 126 international caps for Belgium and an impressive tally of 33 goals and 36 assists. After making his international debut in 2008, he went on to represent Belgium in three World Cups, two European Championships.
