This piece is part of a comprehensive series leading up to the 2026 World Cup, produced by top media outlets from the 48 qualifying nations. Starting June 11, will feature daily insights from three different countries.
Team Strategy
Head coach Rudi Garcia recognizes that the Red Devils excel in offensive play. With talents like Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku, and Romelu Lukaku, each player brings unique strengths. However, the defense, apart from standout goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, remains a vulnerability following the retirement of legendary players such as Toby Alderweireld, Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen, and Jan Vertonghen. “That is why I will always choose four defenders and not five,” Garcia remarked. “Using five would mean sacrificing an attacking player, which would be detrimental.”
Garcia typically employs a medium block that bolsters the offense while alleviating pressure from the defenders. However, his strategy may be questionable due to Lukaku’s condition. This season, he has only logged 64 minutes with Napoli and has been sidelined from national duty due to injuries, only appearing as a substitute in the recent 2-0 victory against Croatia, where he netted a goal in stoppage time. The loss of his father has also taken a toll on him. As Belgium’s all-time leading scorer with 90 goals, Lukaku will enter the World Cup lacking match fitness.
Belgium: Group G Matches
15 June vs Egypt, Seattle (12:00 PM local, 8:00 PM BST, 16 June 5:00 AM AEST)
21 June vs Iran, Los Angeles (12:00 PM local, 8:00 PM BST, 22 June 5:00 AM AEST)
26 June vs New Zealand, Vancouver (8:00 PM local, 27 June 4:00 AM BST, 27 June 12:00 PM AEST)
Belgium’s path to qualification was smooth, defeating teams like Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, and Liechtenstein. Despite remaining unbeaten, the quality of play was unimpressive, featuring three draws—two against North Macedonia and one against Kazakhstan. Scoring 29 goals in eight matches showcased Belgium’s attacking prowess, placing a spotlight on Doku’s offensive skills and Courtois’s goalkeeping.
Since taking the reins in January 2025, Garcia has emphasized the importance of hard work. “I am prepared for this challenge. Although time is limited, it’s about executing, not just attempting,” he stated. He insists that a strong mindset is essential, urging his players to wear their national colors proudly and give their all for the team.
The Coach’s Profile
Rudi Garcia is stepping into his first role as a national team coach, marking his World Cup debut in North America. At 62, he took over from Domenico Tedesco in January 2025 and brings extensive experience from managing clubs such as Lille, Roma, Marseille, Lyon, Al Nassr, and Napoli. Garcia adopts a traditional coaching style, eschewing data-driven tactics, and has fostered a positive environment within the national team. “What matters to me is that we have a cohesive unit on the field,” he said. “My experience has shown that this is the path to success.”
Key Player Spotlight
Jérémy Doku stands out as the fan favorite in the squad. The 24-year-old Manchester City forward continues to evolve, enhancing his crossing skills while relying on his exceptional speed. He played a crucial role in securing important goals during the latter part of the Premier League season. “I am aware of my strengths and know I must improve my stats,” he acknowledged. “But I still have work to do.”
Player to Watch
Matias Fernandez-Pardo was not initially part of Garcia’s plans until early May. The 21-year-old striker from Lille, who holds both Spanish and Belgian citizenship, initially leaned toward representing Spain. However, due to the uncertainties surrounding Lukaku’s fitness and Loïs Openda’s decline at Juventus, he reconsidered. His speed, dribbling, and opportunistic play have secured him a place in the World Cup squad. After departing Gent in August 2024 as a winger, Lille’s coach Bruno Génésio has positioned him as a striker, resulting in eight goals and five assists across 29 league matches in the 2025-26 season.
Unsung Contributor
Maxim De Cuyper, a 25-year-old left-back from Brighton, has proven invaluable to the Red Devils with his offensive contributions. In Lukaku’s absence, he has emerged as a reliable goal-scorer for the national team. Under Garcia’s leadership, he has started every match when fit, and this trend is expected to continue during the World Cup, despite often being a substitute at Brighton.
Projected Starting Lineup
What can fans expect from the stands?
Belgian supporters are known for their enthusiasm and love of a few drinks before entering stadiums. However, due to the country’s linguistic diversity—Dutch, French, and some German—coordinating chants can be challenging. As a compromise, they often resort to singing in English, although singing is not always prevalent.
Views on the US and Trump
Similar to many other European nations, there is skepticism regarding Donald Trump and his communication style. His derogatory comment referring to Molenbeek, a Brussels suburb, as a “hellhole” did not sit well with the public. Although the Belgian FA is unlikely to make an official statement, fans have expressed grievances about high ticket prices, but there’s been no talk of a boycott.
