Belgium's national team captain, Eden Hazard, has declared his retirement from international play.
The forward took part in each of Belgium's three Group F games. He did not, however, contribute to any goals as Belgium placed third in the group, drawing 0-0 with Croatia, defeating Canada, and falling to Morocco.
In 126 games since making his international debut in 2008, Hazard has scored 33 goals. With his help, Belgium reached the World Cup semi-finals, where they eventually fell to eventual champion France but triumphed over England in the third-place playoff.
“I have decided to put an end to my international career. The succession is ready,” Hazard wrote on Instagram.
“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 will miss you.”
Roberto Martinez, coach of the second-ranked Belgium national team, resigned Thursday after the team’s dismal performance in Qatar.