Garcia's unchanged Belgium XI signals confidence before Senegal clash

Rudi Garcia has confirmed Belgium's starting eleven for the upcoming match against Senegal, with the kickoff scheduled in just over an hour. The selection retains the core of the side that faced New Zealand in Vancouver, still offering no major surprises. Many expected Rudi Garcia to tweak the side after the solid performance against New Zealand. Some believed Nathan Ngoy would re‑enter the starting eleven, but the coach appeared satisfied with the defensive display in Vancouver. Arthur Theate is named to start alongside centre‑back Brandon Mechele, mirroring the arrangement used in the third group match. Ngoy, who has returned from suspension, will have to wait for another opportunity despite two strong outings before his unfortunate red card.

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There was speculation that Amadou Onana might be added to bring extra physicality against his native country. Instead, Garcia favoured an attacking midfield trio of Youri Tielemans, Kevin Vanaken and Kevin De Bruyne. On the wings, Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard retain their places in the lineup. Doku, a Manchester City winger, will look to answer his manager’s recent remark that Belgium had played the group stage “without Jeremy Doku” despite two starts. In attack, Charles De Ketelaere leads the line, a choice reinforced by his presence at the press conference the day before and Garcia’s public praise. Romelu Lukaku is set to continue his role as supersub, ready to impact the game later. The Belgium‑Senegal encounter will be streamed live on Walfoot.be from 22:00, giving fans a chance to watch the Red Devils’ approach unfold.