Belgium World Cup 2026

Belgium arrive at the 2026 World Cup in transition, as the celebrated golden generation that topped the FIFA rankings and reached the 2018 semi-finals gives way to a new wave. The departures and ageing of key figures have forced a rebuild, but serious talent remains. Kevin De Bruyne, when fit, is still one of football's most creative forces, Romelu Lukaku provides a proven goal threat, and exciting youngsters like Jérémy Doku and Amadou Onana represent the future. Group-stage exits at the last World Cup and Euro 2024 have tempered expectations, but the Red Devils retain the quality to trouble anyone when their stars align.

Belgium topped UEFA qualifying Group J to seal qualification in November 2025 under new boss Rudi Garcia. Drawn into Group G with Iran, Egypt and New Zealand, they are strong favourites to advance, though the challenge is converting a transitioning squad into a cohesive knockout contender.

Rudi Garcia favours an attacking 4-2-3-1 built around Kevin De Bruyne's creativity. Romelu Lukaku leads the line, Jérémy Doku supplies explosive dribbling on the wing, and Amadou Onana provides midfield power. Talented but in transition, Belgium blend experienced stars with hungry youngsters and attack with intent.

Belgium's best World Cup result was a semi-final appearance in 2018, where they finished third after losing to France. They also reached the 1986 semi-finals in Mexico and have qualified for 14 tournaments in total. Their golden generation — featuring De Bruyne, Hazard, Lukaku and Courtois — was regarded as the finest in Belgian history but ultimately fell short of a major trophy.

Belgium spent over three years ranked as the number one team in the FIFA World Rankings — a remarkable reign for a nation of just 11 million people — yet their celebrated golden generation never quite delivered the major trophy their talent deserved.