FIFA World Cup Round of 16 live: Belgium announce starting XI against United States, De Bruyne and Lukaku start on bench
Belgian coach Rudi García has officially confirmed his starting lineup for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash against the United States at Seattle Stadium.
The biggest talking point in the team’s squad is the decision to leave experienced stars Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku on the bench, with Garcia opting for a younger attacking setup in the knockout match.
Belgium’s official starting lineup (4-2-3-1)
Goalie:
Thibaut Courtois
Defenders:
Timothy Castagne, Nathan Ngoy, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper
Midfielders:
Amadou Onana, Nicolas Raskin, Youri Tielemans (C)
Forwards:
Dodi Lukébakio, Charles De Ketelaere, Leandro Trossard
Subs available:
Senne Lammens, Mike Penders, Arthur Theate, Zeno Debast, Thomas Meunier, Koni De Winter, Joaquin Seys, Axel Witsel, Hans Vanaken, Alexis Saelemaekers, Diego Moreira, Matías Fernández-Pardo, Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku, Romelu Lukaku
Belgium enters the tie with a team in top form and without suspension problems after their dramatic extra-time victory over Senegal in the round of 32. Despite playing 120 minutes in their previous match, the Red Devils have avoided any major physical problems ahead of the crucial clash.
Rudi García has made an important tactical decision by introducing changes to his usual set-up, keeping experienced Belgian leaders De Bruyne and Lukaku in reserve as possible game changers in the second half. The initial attack will depend on the creativity of Trossard and De Ketelaere, while Tielemans is expected to take responsibility in midfield as captain.
The Red Devils will look to utilize their depth off the bench if the match remains close, with De Bruyne, Lukaku and Doku offering elite attacking options for the closing stages.