Belgium football team missing key players before New Zealand World Cup group match

The Belgium national side continued its World Cup preparation in Seattle without several first‑team regulars. Defender Brandon Mechele and midfielder Leandro Trossard remained on medical rest after minor injuries, while forward Jeremy Doku was absent on family leave for the birth of his son. Zeno Debast also stayed away, continuing individual rehabilitation.

Coach Rudi Garcia oversaw a sharper training session, which chief sport editor Kristof Liberloo described as more intense, with specific drills focused on short passing in half‑spaces and finishing exercises. Garcia observed the session himself. The squad is set to play New Zealand in the final group game after earlier draws with Egypt (1‑1) and Iran (0‑0).