Belgian football squad jostles for starting roles after Senegal win

After Belgium's narrow victory over Senegal, competition for places in the national team intensified. Defender Arthur Theate, who briefly tried his hand at DJing in the locker room, was quickly taken off the “music box” and returned to the bench, with teammates such as Alexis Saelemaekers, Diego Moreira and Amadou Onana noted for keeping the squad’s morale.

Winger Jérémy Doku also sees his starting berth in jeopardy. Following mixed displays against Egypt, Iran and New Zealand, and a brief illness, coach Rudi Garcia substituted him after just 55 minutes in the Senegal match. Analysts highlighted the threat of replacement options, including Leandro Trossard, Dodi Lukebakio, Saelemaekers and the emerging Moreira, who impressed in the group stage. The squad’s internal dynamics and on‑field performances are now under close scrutiny as Belgium looks ahead to the next fixtures.