This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media organizations from the 48 qualifying nations. As the tournament approaches, is providing daily previews from three countries leading up to the kickoff on June 11.
Strategic Approach
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 contributes uniquely to the attack. However, the defense remains a vulnerability, especially with the retirement of stalwarts such as Toby Alderweireld, Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen, and Jan Vertonghen, leaving Thibaut Courtois as the sole standout in goal. “That is why I will always choose four defenders and not five,” Garcia clarifies. “With five defenders I have to sacrifice an attacking player and that would be a shame.”
Typically, Garcia employs a medium block to bolster the offense while alleviating pressure on his defenders. This approach has its complications, particularly concerning Lukaku. The striker has only seen 64 minutes of play for Napoli this season and none for the national team due to injuries, until he made a late appearance in a 2-0 victory against Croatia, where he scored during stoppage time. His father’s passing has also weighed heavily on him. Belgium’s all-time leading scorer, with 90 goals, will enter the World Cup lacking match fitness.
The qualification phase went smoothly as Belgium faced teams like Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, and Liechtenstein. Although they remained undefeated, the overall performance wasn’t particularly impressive, with three draws—two against North Macedonia and one in Kazakhstan. Their tally of 29 goals across eight matches highlights their offensive strengths, with significant focus on Doku’s capabilities and Courtois’s goalkeeping prowess.
Garcia has been at the helm since January 2025, stating during his introduction: “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.” He emphasizes the importance of hard work and mentality, asserting, “We must focus on the mindset. We must wear the jersey with pride, and give everything for the national team.”
Coaching Profile
Rudi Garcia steps into the national coaching role for the first time, marking his World Cup debut in North America. The 62-year-old took over from Domenico Tedesco in January 2025 and brings a wealth of experience from clubs like Lille, Roma, Marseille, Lyon, Al Nassr, and Napoli. Preferring a traditional approach, he has chosen to forgo data-driven analysis, fostering a positive culture within the national team. “What matters to me is that there is a team on the field,” he asserts. “My experience shows that you get the furthest that way.”
Key Player
Jérémy Doku stands out as the most celebrated player on the team. The 24-year-old Manchester City forward is rapidly advancing in his career. While initially relying on his remarkable speed, he has recently improved his crossing skills and scored vital goals towards the end of the Premier League season. “I know my qualities and know that I have to work on my statistics,” he remarked. “But I’m not there yet.”
Player to Watch
Matias Fernandez-Pardo was not initially considered by Garcia until early May. The 21-year-old Lille striker, who holds both Spanish and Belgian citizenship, had previously indicated a preference for Spain. However, due to uncertainties surrounding Lukaku and Loïs Openda’s decline at Juventus, he reevaluated his choice. His speed, dribbling, and opportunistic play secured him a spot on the World Cup roster. After leaving Gent as a winger in August 2024, Lille’s coach Bruno Génésio has transformed him into a striker, resulting in 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 invaluable to 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 leadership, he has started every match when fit and is expected to maintain that role throughout the World Cup, despite often being a substitute at Brighton.
Probable starting XI
Fan Expectations
Belgian supporters enjoy a lively atmosphere, often indulging in drinks before games. However, coordinating chants can be a challenge due to the country’s linguistic diversity, with Dutch, French, and some German spoken. As a result, fans often resort to singing in English, if they participate at all.
Views on the US and Trump
Like many European nations, there exists skepticism towards Donald Trump and his communication style. His description of Molenbeek, a neighborhood in Brussels, as a “hellhole” has not been well received. While the Belgian FA is unlikely to make public statements on the matter, fan concerns regarding high prices have not led to discussions of a boycott.
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