Belgium face Senegal in the last 32 on Wednesday with a fully fit squad and growing confidence after a 5-1 win over New Zealand, but coach Rudy Garcia has warned that favouritism counts for little in knockout football.
Belgium struggled to find rhythm in draws against Egypt and Iran but secured top spot in Group G with a dominant display in their final group game, keeping them in Seattle for the next stage of the tournament.
For the first time in this World Cup, Garcia has a full squad available. Jeremy Doku missed part of the group stage following the birth of his son and a short illness, while defender Zeno Debast is back in contention after recovering from a leg injury sustained while training with Sporting.
Debast may not start against Senegal as he continues to build fitness.
“He’s going to need some time to get back to 100% of his capacities and his potential,” Garcia said.
“But it is not going to be a problem. From the start of the competition we have shown a very strong defence.”
Belgium conceded just twice in the group stage, against Egypt and New Zealand.
Garcia also pointed to the depth in his squad, with several options available from the bench. Romelu Lukaku made an impact in the draw with Egypt, helping force an own goal shortly after coming on in Seattle.
“What matters is not only the starting eleven,” he said.
Weather conditions are expected to be cooler and overcast for Wednesday’s match, a contrast to Belgium’s opening game against Egypt when Garcia complained that heat and dry pitches disrupted their rhythm.
The Belgium coach said conditions are unlikely to be an excuse this time.
Recent knockout results, including Germany’s exit to Paraguay on penalties and the Netherlands’ defeat by Morocco, have reinforced his view that reputation offers little protection at this stage of the tournament.
“There are no small squads,” Garcia said.
“Even if you’re a favourite on paper, as was the case with Germany, you can lose.”
Senegal reached the last 32 after finishing third in a group containing France, Norway and Iraq. Garcia described them as a well-organised side with pace and physical strength.
“They are very fast, very strong and technically good,” he said.
The Belgium coach also has a personal link to the opposition dugout. He previously worked with Senegal manager Pape Thiaw at Saint-Étienne.
“He’s a wonderful player and a wonderful coach,” Garcia said.
“I’m very happy for him. But I’m going to try to beat him.”
