This article is part of the Guardian’s 2026 World Cup expert network, featuring insights from top news organizations across the 48 qualifying nations. Theguardian.com will provide daily previews from three countries in the lead-up to the tournament, starting on June 11.
Belgium’s Strategy
Head coach Rudy Garcia recognizes that Belgium’s offensive prowess is one of their greatest assets. With talents like Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku, and Romelu Lukaku, the Red Devils possess the ability to change the game. However, since the retirement of stalwarts such as Toby Alderweireld, Vincent Kompany, Thomas Vermaelen, and Jan Vertonghen, the defense has been strained, aside from standout goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Garcia explains, “That’s why I always choose four defenders instead of five. If we have five defenders, we must sacrifice attacking players, which is unfortunate.”
Garcia typically employs a medium block defensive strategy that allows for better support of the attack, minimizing pressure on his defenders. However, with Lukaku struggling for fitness—having played just 64 minutes for Napoli this season and missing prior matches for Belgium due to injury—this approach may be questionable. After a recent loss marked by personal grief following his father’s passing, Lukaku will enter the World Cup lacking match rhythm, despite being the nation’s all-time leading scorer with 90 goals.
Belgium: Group G Fixtures
June 15 vs. Egypt, Seattle (noon local, 8pm BST, 5am AEST June 16)
June 21 vs. Iran, Los Angeles (noon local, 8pm BST, 5am AEST June 22)
June 26 vs. New Zealand, Vancouver (8pm local, 4am June 27 BST, noon June 27 AEST)
The qualification process was largely successful for Belgium, with matches against Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, and Liechtenstein. Despite remaining unbeaten, the quality of play had its ups and downs, highlighted by three draws against North Macedonia and Kazakhstan. Belgium scored 29 goals across eight matches, showcasing their attacking strengths, with eyes keenly focused on Doku to lead the offense and Courtois to safeguard the net.
Appointed in January 2025, Garcia stated at his unveiling, “I’m ready to take on the challenge. While we don’t have much experience, we will take the necessary time to learn. It’s not about trying; it’s about doing. That’s my motto.” He emphasized the importance of hard work and dedication to the national team, insisting that players must wear the jersey with pride.
Coach Rudi Garcia’s Approach
This World Cup marks Rudi Garcia’s debut as the national team manager. At 62, he steps into this role armed with significant experience from his tenures at several clubs, including Lille, Roma, Marseille, Lyon, Al Nasr, and Napoli. Known for his traditional coaching style, he eschews data-driven analysis in favor of nurturing a positive team environment. “What’s important to me is that I have a cohesive unit on the field,” he states. “My experience has shown that this approach can yield the best results.”
Key Player to Watch: Jeremy Doku
Among the Belgian squad, Jeremy Doku stands out as a rising star. The 24-year-old Manchester City forward continues to develop his game, having diversified his play beyond his well-known speed to include improved crossing abilities and timely goal-scoring. “I’m aware of my strengths and understand that I must enhance my statistics,” he admits, recognizing that he still has room to grow.
A New Addition: Matias Fernández-Pardo
Matias Fernández-Pardo, who had initially preferred to represent Spain, was not in Garcia’s plans until early May. The 21-year-old Lille striker, possessing dual Spanish and Belgian citizenship, shifted his allegiance following concerns surrounding Lukaku’s fitness and Reus Openda’s form at Juventus. His speed, dribbling skills, and scoring instinct eventually secured him a position in the World Cup roster. Having transitioned from a winger to a striker under Lille coach Bruno Genesio, he netted eight goals and provided five assists in the 2025-26 season.
Maxim de Kuiper’s Impact
Maxim de Kuiper, a 25-year-old left-back from Brighton, has emerged as an unsung hero for the Red Devils. His relentless attacking contributions have made him a regular scorer for the national team, particularly during Lukaku’s absence. Under Garcia’s leadership, de Kuiper has been a mainstay in the starting lineup when in top form, suggesting he’ll maintain his position throughout the tournament despite being used primarily as a substitute at Brighton.
Belgium Fans’ Pre-Game Rituals
Belgian supporters take pride in their lively pre-game atmosphere, often enjoying a beer before entering the stadium. However, coordinating chants can be a challenge due to the country’s linguistic diversity—Dutch, French, and a touch of German complicate sing-alongs. As a practical compromise, fans may resort to singing in English to unite the crowd.
Perceptions of the US and Trump
Like many in the EU, Belgians harbor a degree of skepticism toward Donald Trump, particularly regarding his often controversial rhetoric. His past comments labeling the Brussels suburb of Molenbeek as a “hellhole” did not sit well with locals. While the Belgian Football Association may remain reticent on political matters, some fans have expressed concerns over transfer fees, although there has been no formal discussion of a boycott.
Written by Ludo Vandewalle for Het Nieuwsblad
