Belgium starting lineup vs Iran confirmed as Kevin De Bruyne named for FIFA World Cup 2026 match

Both sides are seeking their first win of the World Cup campaign in tonight’s match.

Belgium take on Iran in a crucial Group G clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on June 21. Both sides have one point after drawing their respective opening matches, leaving tonight’s game crucial in determining the group dynamics.

The Red Devils struggled to a 1-1 draw with Egypt last week. The European giants conceded early from Emam Ashour’s brilliant strike. Substitute Romelu Lukaku forced an own goal from Mohamed Hany in the 66th minute to rescue a point for his side. However, the result extended their winless run in the World Cup to three matches.

Despite being termed the dark horses of the tournament in every edition, they suffered a group-stage exit four years ago in Qatar. With a clash against New Zealand to follow after this, the Red Devils know that anything short of a perfect performance tonight will jeopardise their qualification hopes.

Also Read: Belgium vs Iran: Five key battles to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026

Let’s look at the Belgium confirmed lineup for the World Cup match against Iran:

Belgium (4-2-3-1): Thibaut Courtois; Thomas Meunier, Nathan Ngoy, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper; Nicolas Raskin, Youri Tielemans (c); Alexis Saelemaekers, Kevin De Bruyne, Leandro Trossard; Romelu Lukaku.

Substitutes: Senne Lammens (gk), Mike Penders (gk), Timothy Castagne, Charles De Ketelaere, Koni De Winter, Matias Fernandez-Pardo, Dodi Lukebakio, Diego Moreira, Amadou Onana, Joaquin Seys, Arthur Theate, Hans Vanaken, Axel Witsel.

Thoughts on the lineup

Despite their unconvincing outing against Egypt, Rudi Garcia is unlikely to make wholesale changes to the squad. Thibaut Courtois keeps his place between the sticks for his 111th cap tonight. In front of him is the relatively inexperienced centre-back pairing of Nathan Ngoy and Brandon Mechele. Lille veteran Thomas Meunier and Brighton’s Maxim De Cuyper start as full-backs.

Youri Tielemans keeps his place in central midfield and is handed the captain’s armband. He is joined by Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin, who comes in place of Amadou Onana. The legendary Kevin De Bruyne starts in an advanced role, flanked by AC Milan’s Alexis Saelemaekers and Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard.

Romelu Lukaku, who is finally fit enough to start a match, takes the place of Atalanta’s Charles De Ketelaere as the lone striker for the Red Devils.

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.