SouthernWorldwide.com – Belgium’s captain, Youri Tielemans, has been forced out of their World Cup quarterfinal match against Spain due to an injury sustained during pre-game warmups.
Hans Vanaken has been named as Tielemans’ replacement in the starting lineup. This news represents another setback for the Red Devils’ squad depth.
Tielemans is a pivotal player for Belgium, contributing significantly to both their offensive and defensive strategies. He had previously scored two goals in Belgium’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Senegal in the round of 32.
Vanaken, who came on as a substitute and scored in Belgium’s 4-1 win against the U.S., now steps into a starting role. He is replacing Amadou Onana, who has been ruled out for the remainder of the World Cup with a torn knee ligament.
Furthermore, Belgium is already without defender Zeno Debast, who is sidelined with a leg injury and has been prevented from playing by his club, Sporting Lisbon.
In a positive development for the team, Kevin De Bruyne has returned to Belgium’s starting lineup for the match against Spain. He had missed the previous game against the U.S. to ensure adequate rest.
Reporting by The Associated Press.
