Belgium vs Spain: Onana Out, De Bruyne Set for World Cup Return

Belgium will be forced into at least one change as they face Spain in the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals today.

Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the last-16 win over the USA and will therefore miss the Spain showdown as well as the remainder of the tournament.

“Unfortunately, the medical examinations have confirmed that Amadou has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament,” a Belgium statement read. “This is devastating news, both for him personally and for the team. 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.”

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Midfield reshuffle

Hans Vanaken replaced Onana against the USA and is an option to be handed a start in central midfield. Another solution is to move captain Youri Tielemans back into a deeper role, allowing Kevin De Bruyne to return to the side after being rested last time out.

While head coach Rudi Garcia’s gamble in the last-16 clash of leaving out Jeremy Doku paid off, the Manchester City winger impressed in a cameo off the bench and could come in for Dodi Lukebakio which would see Leandro Trossard switch over to the right-hand side.

Defensive and attacking options

The Belgium boss appears to have settled largely on his back four in front of Thibaut Courtois, with Timothy Castagne and Maxim De Cuyper the preferred full-back options. Though, Brandon Mechele’s central defensive partner is not quite as clear with Arthur Theate battling Nathan Ngoy.

Up front, Charles De Ketelaere’s two goals against the USA should give him the nod over Romelu Lukaku, who has made a massive impact in both knockout games so far.