Analysts temper Belgium’s World Cup optimism after group win

Belgium’s national team, the Rode Duivels, secured a win over New Zealand to reach the World Cup round of 16, yet analysts such as Olivier Deschacht and Angel Redondo stress that the performance should not be celebrated as a championship sign. After two matchdays, analysts voiced heavy criticism of the Rode Duivels. On the third matchday, Angel Redondo opened the discussion with “Mission accomplished,” indicating a shift toward optimism. Olivier Deschacht warned that New Zealand was “echt zwak” and cautioned against euphoria. He added that Egypt was “heél zwak” and that Iran and New Zealand are also two weak teams, making a first‑place finish normal. Stijn Stijnen noted the pressure inherent in a World Cup and said it is “not logical to just win.” He implied that the tournament’s intensity demands more than a single victory.

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Deschacht said the team “should have taken 9 out of 9” but now they are meeting objectives with a “reality check.” He stressed that a realistic mindset is essential for further progress. Radja Nainggolan expressed disappointment, saying “despite the result, I actually did not think it was that good.” He argued that the opponent’s weakness meant the performance was not a statement.

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Deschacht highlighted that Kevin De Bruyne’s shooting is improving and that Romelu Lukaku appears to be regaining form. He suggested that such developments could allow Belgium to advance further in the tournament. The next challenge for the Rode Duivels will be the round‑of‑16 clash against Senegal. Success in that match will determine whether the early optimism can translate into deeper progress.