World Cup 2026: Trapped in Their Own Shadow

The goalless draw against Iran in the second match of Group G at the 2026 World Cup not only cost the "Red Devils" crucial points but also sparked fierce criticism from experts and fans. As the final whistle blew at the Los Angeles Stadium (USA), disappointment was evident on the faces of Belgian players. A team packed with stars playing in Europe's top leagues once again struggled to find the back of the net.

Belgium controlled nearly 70% of possession, took 22 shots, and had 7 on target. Yet all those numbers became meaningless as the scoreboard remained unchanged.

Manchester United legend Roy Keane was among the harshest critics after the match. He commented on ITV Sport: "In terms of quality, this was a very poor game. Belgium had chances, but their passing, movement, and decision-making were all below standard."

Not only Roy Keane, but former Belgium captain Toby Alderweireld also expressed disappointment, stating that the team's key players are underperforming. Alderweireld remarked: "This is considered Belgium's easiest group. But aside from Courtois, the most important players have yet to show their usual class."

In reality, Belgium entered the World Cup with high expectations. Kevin De Bruyne remains the "brain" in midfield. Romelu Lukaku continues to lead the attack. Thibaut Courtois is still among the world's best goalkeepers. However, the names that once helped Belgium reach the top of the FIFA world rankings for years are no longer making the difference they once did.

Against Iran, Belgium had more possession and more attacks but completely lacked sharpness in decisive moments. Familiar combinations became sluggish and lacked creativity. When chances came, the forwards failed to convert them into goals.

The situation worsened when defender Nathan Ngoy received a red card for a foul on Mehdi Taremi. Although Iran played with a man advantage for over 20 minutes, they couldn't capitalize to secure a win. But for Belgium, failing to beat a lower-ranked opponent is the real concern.

Coach Rudi Garcia admitted the team is struggling with finishing: "We created enough chances but lacked efficiency in the final moments. That's what cost us." Meanwhile, Romelu Lukaku also hid his disappointment. The Inter Milan striker shared: "We had opportunities but couldn't score. In critical moments, the team acted too emotionally instead of sticking to the plan."

After two matches, Belgium has only 2 points and remains winless. More notably, this is their fourth consecutive World Cup match without a victory—a statistic that clearly reflects the decline of a team once hailed as the "golden generation" of Belgian football.

What worries fans is not just the risk of early elimination. The bigger concern lies in the team seemingly still living in the glory of the past. The names that once brought fame to Belgian football are still there, but their impact on the pitch is no longer the same.

The 2026 World Cup could be the last tournament for many key players like De Bruyne, Courtois, or Lukaku in the national team jersey. Yet instead of crafting a brilliant farewell, they are facing the risk of ending their journey with another disappointment.

The final match against New Zealand will decide the fate of the "Red Devils." A win could keep their hopes alive. But more importantly, it is also a chance for Belgium to prove they are still a team capable of competing on the world's biggest stage. Because right now, what worries fans most is not a draw or the risk of elimination, but the feeling that the Belgian team is trapped in the glorious shadow they once built.