Belgium and Senegal prepare for World Cup Round of 32 match

Belgium enter the Round of 32 against Senegal with a fully fit squad for the first time in the tournament. Coach Rudy Garcia confirmed that forward Jeremy Doku and defender Zeno Debast are available, and he emphasized that being favourites offers no guarantee in knockout games.

Senegal face a setback as goalkeeper Édouard Mendy is ruled out after a knee injury sustained in the group stage loss to Norway. Coach Pape Thiaw confirmed that Mendy will miss the match and that backup keeper Mory Diaw is expected to start. Other Senegal players, including defender Mamadou Sarr and captain Kalidou Koulibaly, said they are ready and in good condition.

Both coaches have addressed tactical considerations: Thiaw highlighted a fluid counter‑attacking system to challenge Belgium’s high line, while Garcia said Belgium will stick to their proven formula. The match is scheduled for Wednesday in Seattle’s Husky Soccer Stadium, with the winner set to face either the United States or Bosnia‑Herzegovina in the quarter‑finals.