Romelu Lukaku has spent years as Belgium’s most reliable attacking weapon, but heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup, his role has changed. While he remains a prominent figure in the squad, the striker is being carefully managed as the team balances his experience with his current fitness level.
After starting Belgium’s World Cup campaign from the bench, Lukaku did start the second game against Iran. As the European side look to book their spot in the Round of 32, head coach Rudi Garcia has been facing questions about whether the striker will start their final Group G match against New Zealand.
“The answer is quite clear regarding Romelu Lukaku. He doesn’t have 90 minutes in his legs,” said Garcia. “So if he starts, he’ll need to come off. He can help us by coming off the bench.” The Belgium coach also claimed that the only reason Lukaku started against Iran was due to concerns over Charles De Ketelaere’s fitness.
However, the first-choice forward is expected to be fully fit for the game against New Zealand, which means Lukaku will likely be on the bench. Nevertheless, the 33-year-old has been effective after coming off the bench, as he scored within 22 seconds of entering the pitch against Egypt in the 65th minute. While he was in the starting XI against Iran, Lukaku couldn’t do much as he was substituted in the 73rd minute.
The limited minutes in his playing time are also being managed for his fitness and safety. Before the 2026 World Cup, Lukaku last played professionally in March for SSC Napoli in a Serie A match against Cagliari Calcio. He finished last season with only one goal for the Italian side. Despite those struggles, Lukaku’s importance to Belgium remains undeniable.
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He has scored six goals across World Cup tournaments and remains the nation’s all-time leading scorer with 90 international goals. As Belgium face a tough challenge to make it to the knockout rounds, they will need their top scorer to come on later in the game and save them once again.
The Red Devils will be guaranteed a spot in the Round of 32 with a win against New Zealand. A draw will also do the job, but a loss against the Blackcaps will eliminate Belgium from the World Cup. In order to finish top of the table, Belgium need to win by a margin of three or more goals while hoping the Egypt vs. Iran game ends in a draw.
With a do-or-die game ahead, Belgium will need Lukaku’s ability, as he can change a game in moments with his skills and experience regardless of how his legs feel.
