'Bigger than a dream' - Jan on World Cup goal

Ecstatic Jan Vertonghen says he’s exceeded his wildest dreams after scoring the winning goal in Belgium’s latest World Cup match.

Our versatile defender captained the Red Devils and hit the target in Thursday night’s 1-0 win over South Korea in Sao Paulo – a result that saw them complete their Group H campaign in top spot with a 100 per cent record heading into Tuesday’s last 16 clash with USA.

Mousa Dembele and Nacer Chadli joined in the celebrations after the goal went in, with a delighted Jan revealing just how much his big moment meant to all concerned.

“It was even bigger than I could ever dream of,” beamed the 27-year-old. “My team-mates were obviously all very happy for me and it was special for Mousa as well because I’ve spent most of my time with him here. He was very happy.”

Jan was a prominent figure at both ends of the pitch on Thursday, getting forward and trying a couple of long-range shots before finally hitting the target with 13 minutes remaining.

He sprung striker Divock Origi in behind the South Korea defence and, after the substitute’s shot was repelled by goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu, Jan was there to coolly slot into the bottom corner of the net.

His goal added to his pride at being handed the captain’s armband, on a night that will surely live with him for a long time to come.

“It was a very special moment to lead out my country at a World Cup game. I felt very honoured,” Jan added.

“I always try to get on the scoresheet and I was happy I managed to do it.”