Belgium’s World Cup campaign concludes
Belgium exited the World Cup after a quarter-final defeat against Spain, marking what is likely the final major tournament for several members of their so-called golden generation. Despite a valiant effort, Belgium succumbed to a late goal following an injury to goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and a subsequent error from his replacement.
The match saw Belgium manager Rudi Garcia grappling with a series of injury setbacks even before kick-off. Amadou Onana was sidelined with a torn anterior cruciate ligament sustained in the previous round’s victory over the USA. Defender Zeno Debast was also unavailable due to a disagreement between Belgium and Sporting regarding his fitness. Minutes before the game, Youri Tielemans was withdrawn from the starting lineup after suffering an injury during the warm-up, reportedly a suspected hamstring issue. Hans Vanaken replaced him in midfield.
Despite these challenges, Belgium demonstrated resilience throughout the contest. Jérémy Doku, returning to the lineup, showed significant energy, creating space and opportunities. His proactive play, however, sometimes left him vulnerable defensively. Spain capitalised on this, with Fábian Ruiz scoring the opening goal after a cross from Pedro Porro.
Veterans lead the fightback
Belgium refused to be overwhelmed, finding an equaliser through Charles De Ketelaere in the 39th minute. The Atalanta forward, who had scored twice in the last 16, headed home after a pass from Kevin De Bruyne to Timothy Castagne, who then crossed the ball. This goal, Belgium’s first effort on target, brought them level after Spain had established an early lead.
The team continued to press, with Doku’s dribbling creating further chances, including one that nearly led to a second goal when a deflected attempt fell to Maxim De Cuyper, who was unable to convert. Garcia’s side displayed greater determination compared to their previous tournament exits, including their group stage departure in Qatar four years prior and their last 16 elimination at Euro 2024.
In a triple substitution, Leandro Trossard was replaced by Romelu Lukaku, with De Ketelaere moving to a wider position. Simultaneously, Axel Witsel entered the game, meaning all four veterans from the 2014 World Cup squad were on the pitch with half an hour remaining, showcasing the reliance on their experienced players.
Late drama and decisive error
The match took a dramatic turn with injuries to key players. Thibaut Courtois, who had made a crucial save earlier, was forced to leave the field in the 71st minute due to a leg injury, visibly emotional as he departed. He was replaced by Senne Lammens, making his World Cup debut. Courtois, at 34, has participated in four previous World Cups, and this injury could mark his final appearance in the tournament.
Kevin De Bruyne also struggled with fitness, eventually being substituted in the final minutes after receiving a yellow card for a challenge on Ferran Torres. Alexis Saelemaekers came on as Garcia used his final substitution to replace the veteran.
The decisive moment came late in the game. Pau Cubarsí took a shot from outside the box, which Lammens was unable to secure, spilling the ball into the penalty area. Mikel Merino was quick to react, seizing the loose ball and scoring an 88th-minute winner for Spain. This error proved costly for Belgium, sending Spain through to a semi-final against France. Lammens was consoled by his teammates after the mistake, while Courtois watched on, visibly dismayed by the outcome.
While Courtois may potentially feature in a future World Cup, this tournament is likely the last for several other long-serving members of Belgium’s talented squad. Despite the ultimate defeat, Garcia’s team demonstrated pride and fought until the final whistle against the European champions.
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Source: theguardian.com
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”