World Cup 2018: 5 underperformers from the semi-finals

#2 Romelu Lukaku - Belgium

Lukaku failed to capitalise on his chances against France

Big Rom was the centre of attention and crosses, along with his club and country compatriot Marouane Fellaini in the semi-final against France. Sadly for Belgium and the 25 year-old, he couldn't capitalise as they lost to France 1-0.

Being the all time leading goalscorer for his nation at such a young age and having scored 4 in this World Cup campaign so far, fans were hoping for him to trouble the French defense with his brute strength, improved build-up and hold-up play that saw him set up De Bruyne earlier in the competition.

With Eden Hazard playing some of the best football of his life and de Bruyne dominating the midfield, all Lukaku had to do was push forward and either connect with a cross or draw enough players towards him to leave spaces open for his fellow countrymen to take a shot at goal.

The French defense however had other plans for him as he was constantly man-marked, and his runs caught by the quick French defense. His passes were intercepted by the likes of Kante and Pogba which left very little room for link up play.

The lack of service from the midfield duo of Dembele and Witsel meant Lukaku was deprived of the ball for a good period of time in the build-up, despite Belgium keeping majority of possession.

The last 30 minutes saw Belgium make attacking changes, and while the number and quality of the crosses and through balls started to improve, Lukaku failed to capitalise.

While his compatriots tried their individual best to get the team an opening goal, Lukaku seemed lost for cause and lost his grip on a game in which fans expected him to perform.

Not everything is lost for the Manchester star whose humble beginnings are an inspiration. The campaign with Belgium for this World Cup may be over, but the 3rd place play-off comes as a silver lining for the player, presenting him with the opportunity to go for the Golden Boot.