Belgium’s ‘golden generation’ bows out of World Cup after quarter-final defeat to Spain
Belgium exited the World Cup quarter-finals following a defeat to Spain, marking what is likely the final tournament for several key players from their ‘golden generation’. Manager Rudi Garcia‘s side recovered from a challenging group stage, providing a stern test for Spain before ultimately succumbing.
The match was significantly impacted by a series of injuries to Belgian players. Midfielder Youri Tielemans was withdrawn from the starting lineup just minutes before kick-off due to a suspected hamstring injury sustained during the warm-up. He was replaced by Hans Vanaken. Earlier, Amadou Onana was sidelined with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, and Zeno Debast was omitted from the squad due to fitness concerns.
Belgium’s Injury Woes and Equaliser
Jérémy Doku returned to the lineup and demonstrated a more dynamic performance than in the group stage. He created space on the right flank, challenging Pedro Porro and Lamine Yamal. However, Spain capitalised on a moment when Doku was a step behind Porro, leading to Fábian Ruiz scoring the opening goal after a cross.
Despite Spain‘s initial dominance, Belgium showed resilience. Charles De Ketelaere, who had scored twice in the previous round, netted an equaliser in the 39th minute. After receiving a pass from Kevin De Bruyne, De Ketelaere headed the ball past Pau Cabarsí, marking Belgium‘s first shot on target.
Belgium continued to find opportunities, particularly through Doku‘s dribbling, which opened up space for teammates like Maxim De Cuyper. A potential second goal nearly materialised from a give-and-go between Doku and De Bruyne, but De Cuyper was unable to convert a deflected attempt.
Late Drama and Courtois’ Exit
Garcia‘s team displayed greater determination compared to their previous tournament exits. A triple substitution saw Leandro Trossard replaced by Romelu Lukaku, with De Ketelaere moving wider. Axel Witsel also entered the game, bringing all four veterans from the 2014 World Cup squad onto the pitch with half an hour remaining.
However, Belgium‘s efforts were further hampered by injuries. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois sustained a leg injury just before the second-half hydration break. After attempting to continue, he was forced to leave the field in the 71st minute, visibly emotional. He was replaced by Senne Lammens, who was making his World Cup debut.
Kevin De Bruyne also struggled with fitness, eventually being substituted in the 80th minute after receiving a yellow card for a challenge on Ferran Torres. This substitution was Garcia‘s final change, aimed at preventing Spain from exploiting De Bruyne‘s apparent discomfort.
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 reacted quickly, pouncing on the loose ball and scoring an 88th-minute winner for Spain. This goal secured Spain‘s place in the semi-finals, their first since 2010.
While Courtois, at 34, may still participate in a future World Cup, this tournament is expected to be the last for several members of Belgium‘s most talented generation. Despite the defeat, Garcia‘s squad demonstrated a valiant effort against the European champions until the final whistle.
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Source: theguardian.com