Belgium delivered a statement of intent ahead of the 2025 FIFA World Cup with a clinical 2-0 friendly victory over Croatia in Rijeka. Captain Youri Tielemans and returning striker Romelu Lukaku found the net, while Thibaut Courtois produced world-class saves to keep a clean sheet. The win provided Rudi Garcia with vital answers as he fine-tunes his squad for the tournament opener against Egypt in Seattle on June 15.
Tielemans, riding high after scoring in Aston Villa's Europa League final triumph over Freiburg, broke the deadlock in the 38th minute. The goal originated from a Jérémy Doku cross that Croatia's defense failed to clear convincingly. Pouncing on the loose ball, Tielemans fired a precise angled finish past the goalkeeper, underlining his importance as both captain and midfield engine.
Garcia's decision to deploy a flat three-man defense—a formation he had wanted to test during the March United States tour—proved effective. Amadou Onana anchored the backline, while young Nathan Ngoy stepped in on the right of the trio and impressed with his composure and one-on-one defending. Ngoy, making a rare appearance, rarely looked troubled and showed maturity beyond his years, offering Garcia another reliable option at the back.
Croatia's best first-half chance fell to Luka Modric, whose clever flick from inside the box demanded a miraculous save from Courtois. The Real Madrid goalkeeper extended his frame to divert the ball, preserving Belgium's lead and reminding everyone of his status as one of the world's elite shot-stoppers. It was a moment that could have shifted momentum but instead reinforced the visitors' resilience.
Belgium’s high press and immediate counter-pressing stifled Croatia's buildup. Kevin De Bruyne, granted a free role, roamed to create overloads, while the wide corridors were constantly exploited. Despite a few early organizational issues, the team grew into Garcia's demanding system and largely dominated the individual battles across the pitch.
The second half saw Croatia push for an equalizer, with substitute Ante Budimir coming closest. The Osasuna striker, who scored 17 La Liga goals this season, rose to meet a cross but saw his header crash against the crossbar. Doku continued to threaten on the break with his blistering pace, keeping the Croatian defense honest.
Lukaku, making his return to the national team setup, put the result beyond doubt with a trademark finish. While the exact timing of his goal is less documented, his presence and sharpness signaled that he remains a focal point for Garcia's attacking plans. The goal capped a satisfying evening for the Belgian faithful.
The performance offered several positives for Garcia. Tielemans' form, Lukaku's return, Courtois' reliability, and Ngoy's emergence all bolster the squad's depth. With Zenon Debast sidelined until at least the third group game against New Zealand on June 26, having alternatives in defense is crucial. Leandro Trossard, fresh from a Champions League final loss to PSG, is also expected to rejoin the camp, further strengthening the team.
Belgium now head to Brussels to face Tunisia in their final warm-up match, a last chance to experiment before the World Cup kicks off. The team's ability to maintain this intensity and adapt to different opponents will be key. Garcia's tactical blueprint—a three-man defense with high pressing—appears to be taking shape, and the players seem to be buying into it.
Ultimately, this friendly was more than just a routine win. It provided clarity, confidence, and a template for how Belgium can navigate a tricky World Cup group. With stars like De Bruyne, Courtois, and Lukaku firing, the Red Devils are quietly building serious momentum.
Based on reporting from L'Equipe.
