Belgium’s Golden Generation Fades as World Cup 2026 Journey Hits Bumps

Belgium’s much-lauded “golden generation” of footballers appears to be entering its final chapter at the World Cup 2026, with a goalless draw against Iran following an unconvincing opening match against Egypt. The Red Devils, currently ranked ninth by FIFA, have struggled to perform to the lofty expectations placed upon them, raising questions about the team’s future beyond this tournament.

A Waning Era

From the mid-2010s, Belgium consistently fielded one of the most talented squads in international football. A formidable defense marshalled by Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen, a creative midfield spearheaded by Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard, and the potent striking threat of Romelu Lukaku made them genuine contenders. However, despite reaching the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 and 2020 and securing a third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup, the ultimate prize remained elusive.

As key players aged and retired from international duty, the team’s strength gradually diminished. The departure of Eden Hazard after Belgium’s group stage exit in the 2022 World Cup marked a significant turning point. Their performance at Euro 2024 saw them reach the round of 16, only to be eliminated by France after an own goal.

Current Struggles

The current World Cup 2026 campaign has so far reflected this decline. A draw against Egypt, which required an own goal to level the score, was followed by a frustrating 0-0 stalemate with Iran. The absence of experienced defenders like Jan Vertonghen further highlights a squad lacking the star power of previous years, with De Bruyne, now approaching 35, and 33-year-old Lukaku, carrying the bulk of the team’s hopes.

Despite their veteran status, De Bruyne and Lukaku, who both play for Napoli, remain Belgium’s most influential figures. De Bruyne’s creativity was evident against Iran, as he carved out several chances that his teammates failed to convert. Lukaku, meanwhile, has provided the team’s primary attacking threat, notably forcing an own goal shortly after coming on as a substitute against Egypt, though he also missed a late header that could have secured victory.

Future Uncertainty

Looking beyond the established veterans, the Belgium squad for World Cup 2026 features promising players like Jérémy Doku, Leandro Trossard, Amadou Onana, and Youri Tielemans. However, the team is perceived by many to be devoid of the superstar quality that defined the “golden generation.” The question of who will step up to lead the Red Devils in the post-De Bruyne and Lukaku era remains a significant concern for Belgian football fans.

The team’s progression in World Cup 2026 now hangs in the balance, a stark contrast to the overwhelming expectations that once accompanied this talented group of players. Their journey in this tournament may well signify the final curtain call for a generation that promised much but ultimately fell short of delivering a major international trophy.

Key facts

The performance of Belgium in World Cup 2026 is a poignant reflection of the natural cycle of footballing eras. For fans of the Red Devils, this tournament marks a moment of transition, prompting a look towards the next generation of talent while acknowledging the immense contributions of those who have defined Belgian football for the past decade.

Source: Sports Mole Football RSS – https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/belgium/world-cup-2026/feature/how-de-bruynes-golden-generation-is-ending-with-a-whimper-at-world-cup-2026_599781.html