01/07/2026 19:57 - Deportes
Belgian head coach Rudi García has decided to field the exact same lineup that delivered a stunning 5-1 victory over New Zealand in the group stages, showing complete confidence in a squad that displayed remarkable chemistry and attacking prowess in their World Cup opener.
This consistency signals Belgium's intent to build momentum as they enter the knockout rounds of World Cup 2026, hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
| Goalkeeper | |
|---|---|
| Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid) | |
| Defense | |
| Timothy Castagne | Brandon Mechele |
| Arthur Theate | Maxim de Cuyper |
| Midfield | |
| Youri Tielemans - Hans Vanaken | |
| Attack | |
| Leandro Trossard | Kevin De Bruyne |
| Jeremy Doku | Charles De Keteleare (Striker) |
| Goalkeeper | |
|---|---|
| Mory Diaw | |
| Defense | |
| Krepin Diatta | Pathe Ciss |
| Moussa Niakhate | Ismail Jakobs |
| Midfield | |
| Habib Diarra | Idrissa Gana Gueye |
| Pape Gueye | |
| Attack | |
| Sadio Mané | Ismaila Sarr |
| Iliman Ndiaye | |
This Round of 32 knockout match takes place in Seattle, Washington, one of the key host cities for World Cup 2026. Seattle, known for its passionate soccer culture and home to the Seattle Sounders MLS club, provides a spectacular backdrop for this transcontinental clash.
Belgium's Manager: Rudi García (France)
Senegal's Manager: Pape Thiaw (Senegal)
Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City legend) and Jeremy Doku lead Belgium's creative force, while Senegal relies heavily on former Liverpool star Sadio Mané to unlock European defenses.
Senegal, the 2022 African Cup of Nations champions, faces a Belgian side still seeking their first major tournament triumph. A victory here would boost either nation's dream of World Cup glory.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
