Belgium boss Rudi Garcia under fire

Belgium boss Rudi Garcia has come under heavy scrutiny after substituting Thibaut Courtois during the World Cup quarter‑final loss to Spain. Courtois felt he could continue despite a leg twinge, but Garcia insisted he be replaced as he was not “100% fit.” Senne Lammens entered after 71 minutes and later spilled Pau Cubarsí’s low shot, allowing Mikel Merino to score the decisive goal in the 86th minute. Belgian pundits criticised the decision, with Peter Vandenbempt calling it “astonishing” to remove the world’s best goalkeeper in such a match.

Garcia defended his stance, reiterating his policy that only fully fit players can feature. His future will be reviewed as his contract expires this month, despite meeting key objectives such as Nations League survival, World Cup qualification and reaching the last eight. Belgium’s inconsistent campaign raised further questions, though Garcia can point to highlights, including a 4‑1 win over co‑hosts USA and promising performances from emerging players.