Kevin De Bruyne has been recalled to Belgium's starting lineup for their World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Spain, but the Red Devils have been dealt a major midfield blow with Amadou Onana ruled out due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).
Onana's Injury Confirmed
Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana sustained the injury during Belgium's last-16 victory over the USA and will miss the remainder of the tournament. A statement from the Belgian Football Association confirmed: "Unfortunately, the medical examinations have confirmed that Amadou has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. This is devastating news, both for him personally and for the team."
The statement added: "We immediately consulted with Amadou and with Aston Villa to agree on the best approach to his recovery. Over the coming days, we will jointly determine the next steps in his medical treatment and rehabilitation. Throughout this process, we will continue to provide Amadou with our full support."
De Bruyne Returns, Raskin Steps In
Nicolas Raskin starts in central midfield as Onana's replacement, partnering Youri Tielemans. Kevin De Bruyne is back in the side as the No. 10, providing a creative spark. Up front, Charles De Ketelaere gets the nod over Romelu Lukaku after scoring two goals against the USA, though Lukaku has made a massive impact off the bench in both knockout games so far.
Confirmed Belgium XI
Belgium XI: Courtois; Castagne, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper; Raskin, Tielemans; Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard; De Ketelaere.
Injured: Amadou Onana.
The match kicks off at 8pm BST today, July 10, 2026, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and will be broadcast live on BBC One.
