Slovakia created the first major upset at the European Football Championship 2024 when Ivan Schranz's early goal led the underdogs to a 1-0 victory over Belgium.

Ranked 45 places below third-placed Belgium in FIFA’s world rankings, Francesco Calzona’s team defied expectations.

Despite the odds, Slovakia showcased incredible courage in their performance in Frankfurt, Germany on Monday.

Calzona, who previously served as Napoli’s interim coach, mentioned he would have been "pleased" with just a draw.

However, the Italian coach received more than he had hoped for when Schranz broke his nine-game international scoring drought just seven minutes into the match, leaving Belgium in shock.

Key Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku missed several opportunities and had a late equalizer controversially overturned by VAR in the 86th minute due to a handball by teammate Lois Openda in the buildup.

Slovakia's unexpected triumph has thrown Group E into chaos, especially after Romania’s 3-0 win over Ukraine earlier on Monday.

This loss is particularly bitter for Belgium, who once again face the risk of not realizing their full potential in a major tournament.

The so-called golden generation of Belgium has struggled since their group stage exit in the 2022 World Cup.

The team previously fell at the quarterfinals in the last two editions of the European Championship, with a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup remaining their highest achievement, despite being once seen as a future dynasty.