This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media organizations from the 48 qualifying nations. Previews from three countries are being shared daily in anticipation of the tournament, which begins on June 11.
Strategic Approach
Head coach Rudi Garcia recognizes that the Red Devils excel in offensive play. With stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku, and Romelu Lukaku leading the charge, their attacking prowess is undeniable. However, the defensive lineup, aside from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, is viewed as a vulnerability following the retirements of stalwarts such as Toby Alderweireld, Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen, and Jan Vertonghen. Garcia states, “That is why I will always choose four defenders and not five,”
Typically, Garcia employs a medium block to bolster the attack while alleviating pressure on the defenders. However, this tactic may be flawed due to Lukaku’s current situation. Having played merely 64 minutes for Napoli this season and none for the national team prior to coming off the bench in a recent 2-0 victory over Croatia—where he scored the second goal in stoppage time—Lukaku, who also recently lost his father, will enter the World Cup without proper match fitness.
Belgium’s qualifying campaign was relatively smooth, facing off against Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, and Liechtenstein. Although they remained unbeaten, their performance was marred by three draws, two against North Macedonia and one against Kazakhstan. Scoring 29 goals in eight matches highlighted their offensive capabilities, with significant attention expected on Doku’s contributions up front and Courtois’ efforts in goal.
Since taking the helm in January 2025, Garcia has emphasized the importance of hard work, stating upon his appointment: “With five defenders I have to sacrifice an attacking player and that would be a shame.” He believes mindset is crucial, insisting that players must “I am ready to take on the challenge. It will take time to learn, even though we don’t have much of it. It’s not about trying, it’s about doing, that’s my motto.”
Coaching Background
Rudi Garcia is embarking on his first experience as a national team coach and will make his World Cup debut in North America. The 62-year-old succeeded Domenico Tedesco in January 2025 and brings a wealth of experience from stints with clubs such as Lille, Roma, Marseille, Lyon, Al Nassr, and Napoli. Garcia prefers traditional coaching methods over data-driven analysis and has fostered a positive environment within the squad, remarking, “We must focus on the mindset. We must wear the jersey with pride, and give everything for the national team.”
Key Player
Jérémy Doku stands out as the most celebrated player in the squad. The 24-year-old Manchester City forward has shown remarkable growth, transitioning from relying solely on his speed to enhancing his crossing abilities, notably scoring crucial goals during the Premier League’s concluding matches. “What matters to me is that there is a team on the field,” he acknowledged, adding, “My experience shows that you get the furthest that way.”
Player to Watch
Matias Fernandez-Pardo, initially absent from Garcia’s plans, emerged as a noteworthy addition earlier in May. The 21-year-old striker from Lille, who holds both Spanish and Belgian citizenship, initially intended to represent Spain. However, after the Belgian FA reached out due to uncertainties surrounding Lukaku and the decline of Loïs Openda at Juventus, he opted for Belgium. His speed, dribbling, and opportunistic play secured him a spot in the World Cup roster. After leaving Gent as a winger in August 2024, he has thrived as a striker under Lille’s coach Bruno Génésio, amassing eight goals and five assists in 29 league appearances for the 2025-26 season.
Unsung Contributor
Maxim De Cuyper, the 25-year-old left-back from Brighton, has become an invaluable asset for the Red Devils with his attacking contributions. In Lukaku’s absence, he has emerged as a consistent goal-scorer for the national team. Under Garcia’s guidance, De Cuyper has started every match when fit, and despite often being a substitute at Brighton, he is likely to maintain his starting role during the World Cup.
Probable starting XI
Fan Expectations
Belgian supporters are known for their lively spirit and enjoy a few drinks before entering the stadium. However, coordinating chants can be challenging due to the country’s linguistic diversity, with Dutch, French, and some German spoken. As a result, they often settle for singing in English, if they sing at all.
Relations with the US
Similar to many European countries, there exists skepticism towards Donald Trump and his manner of speaking. His previous comments labeling Molenbeek, a suburb of Brussels, as a “I know my qualities and know that I have to work on my statistics,” were particularly unpopular. The Belgian FA is unlikely to publicly address this issue, and while fans have voiced concerns about rising costs, discussions of a boycott have yet to surface.
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