Simon Mignolet, 7.5: A very solid debut for the young Sunderland keeper. He made one smart save on Janko, preventing an equalizing goal. Quite good in the air and his calmness was a welcome sight. He didn't clear a ball far enough on one corner, but no harm done. If he can stay in goal for his club, then I believe we have found our undisputed starter at the position.
Laurent Ciman, 5.5: In the first 30 minutes of the game, Ciman looked like a calamity waiting to happen, as he kept clearing balls into opposing players. He didn't look at all as though he belonged. But then, he started to settle, and lo and behold, he didn't give Arnautovic a sniff as the game wore on. He even gave an assist for the second goal. But, unfortunately, he's still just a stop-gap solution.
Daniel Van Buyten, 6: In all fairness to Van Buyten, he played a very good game overall, dominating the Austrians in the air, something we definitely missed in the home game. But he gave away Austria's biggest chance (with help from Ciman). If it wasn't for Mignolet, he'd be crucified in Belgium right now. If he could cut out the (near-)blunders, I don't think anyone would have a problem with him starting, since he adds such a great physical presence.
Vincent Kompany, 8: Vince the Prince is now King Kompany. Dominating in every sense of the word. He had little trouble with Janko, or the larger Maierhofer. His distribution was good and his classy manner of play reassures his teammates. Only negative was the yellow card he picked up, forcing him to miss the Azerbaijan game on Tuesday.
Jan Vertonghen, 7: A very good defensive game from the Ajax man. He kept his man quite all game. He had one chance on goal, but for the most part, he stayed back to confine the Austrian attack (which is logical seeing as Belgium grabbed the lead very early on).
Timmy Simons, 6.5: A solid performance. While he was nervy in the first 30 minutes, he calmed down and prevented any Austrian incursions through the centre. Doesn't have the attacking ability that Fellaini has, but his experience was vital in preventing the Austrians from coming back into the match.
Steven Defour, 6.5: A quiet game from the Standard-captain. Gave the assist for the first goal, and constantly harried any opposing player coming into the Belgian half. Not a brilliant performance, but a very useful one.
Axel Witsel, 8.5: A fantastic match for the young versatile, midfielder. He took his goals very well, but he also was so good at winning the ball in the air and ground. He was strong on the ball, and gave some great touches as well (the deft flick to the offside Ogunjimi stands out). I'm struggling to remember if even Fellaini has ever had as good a game with the Duivels as Witsel did last night. Man of the match, without a doubt.
Moussa Dembele, 6.5: Strong on the ball, and mindful of his defensive duties. Gave his defender a torrid time. But he lacked the final bit of incisiveness needed in the 16. Still can't fault his excellent work rate. Good choice by Leekens.
Nacer Chadli, 7: While he wasn't very dangerous, Chadli raided the left side quite well, holding the ball, and providing some good crosses. Defended well too (a running theme for this match). He got the nod over Hazard on the left, and to some extent justified it.
Marvin Ogunjimi, 6: No real threat on goal, but he constantly chased down balls, harried the defenders, and was just a general nuisance. A decent game, but I don't believe he's the answer to our lack of production from our strikers.
Kevin Mirallas, 5 (subbed off Ogunjimi in 80th minute): In his limited minutes, he looked quite good, showing some attacking bite.
All in all, it was a good showing by the Rode Duivels, with a mental fortitude that has been lacking recently. Next up is Azerbaijan, a must-win game (and a game that should be won comfortably). I think the Duivels will again win, with the same scoreline of 2-0, which should them back into a good position to qualify for the Euro Cup.
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