Belgium Stumble Again as De Bruyne and Lukaku Face Heavy Criticism

Belgium failed to win again at the 2026 World Cup, drawing 0-0 with Iran after another disappointing attacking display. The side produced 23 attempts without scoring, their highest shot total in a goalless match since the 1994 World Cup, when they had 28 chances against Saudi Arabia.

The game’s biggest moment came when Iran thought it had scored in the 25th minute. Mehdi Taremi finished a clever free-kick routine, but VAR intervened and overturned what would have been a surprise lead for Iran.

While the review was taking place, cameras also caught the frustration in the stands. Kevin De Bruyne’s 10-year-old eldest son, Milian, was seen crying and being comforted by his mother, Michele Lacroix.

Belgian media sharply criticized De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku for failing to lead the team, saying they appear to be moving in “giant steps toward the end” of their careers. French pundit Daniel Riolo was also blunt on RMC, saying, “I am very disappointed with Belgium. Lukaku is quite heavy, De Bruyne is no longer able to make the difference. There is a lack of sharpness there. They will probably get through the group, but they will not scare anyone after that.”