Why is Kevin de Bruyne benched for Belgium vs USA FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash?

Kevin de Bruyne started all four other games for Belgium.

Belgium, which secured a historic 3-2 victory over Senegal in the round of 32 last week in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, courtesy of a late penalty by captain Youri Tielemans, are set to face the USA. Both sides will clash in the round of 16 at the Seattle Stadium in Washington.

The Red Devils’ run in the ongoing tournament has been dramatic, while the USA’s home advantage is currently being questioned. That happened especially after Folarin Balogun’s red card was revoked following US President Donald Trump’s intervention.

However, the lineups of the knockout clash have been announced for both teams. While Mauricio Pochettino has decided to keep his side unchanged, Rudi Garcia has made some bold choices by benching some of the top names.

One of his choices has left fans wondering why Kevin de Bruyne starts from the bench for Belgium in the FIFA World Cup against the USA.

Also Read: USA vs Belgium LIVE streaming, TV channel, kick-off time & where to watch FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16

Why is Kevin de Bruyne benched for Belgium vs. USA in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash?

Kevin de Bruyne is arguably one of the most important figures in the Belgian line-up, thanks to his experience. However, his form hasn’t been the best in recent games. Against Senegal in the Round of 32, he was substituted in the 56th minute by Rudi Garcia after he struggled to have an effort in the game. De Bruyne is reportedly suffering from a fitness concern.

It’s fair to say that the Red Devils have taken a brave call by naming the former Manchester City midfielder on the bench. At one point, it felt like the 2018 World Cup semi-finalists would not be able to drop the 35-year-old from the starting XI; however, it has happened.

The decision became easy for the Red Devils after they staged a historic comeback against Senegal in their last match. After trailing 2-0 for more than 80 minutes, Belgium crafted a remarkable comeback, courtesy of goals from Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans.

After the Napoli midfielder, Jeremy Doku, was also subbed out in the 56th minute, Garcia decided to make different reinforcements in the lineup.

Nevertheless, Kevin de Bruyne can come off the bench and make a difference. Fans might get to see the Belgian veteran in the second half against the USA, as putting him on the bench is a complete tactical decision.

In the meantime, Dodi Lukébakio will start over Jeremy Doku and Nicolas Raskin over Kevin de Bruyne.

For more updates, follow Khel Now on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube; download the Khel Now Android App or IOS App and join our community on Whatsapp & Telegram.