Belgium coach Crasson slams poor World Cup 2026 display against Iran

Belgium’s World Cup 2026 campaign suffered another setback after a limp display in a 0-0 draw with Iran that left former international Bertrand Crasson "very disappointed." Crasson, a 26-cap former Red Devil, reserved his harshest criticism for Belgium’s lack of creativity, stating: "Very disappointed, yes, also at the quality presented by the Red Devils." He added that Belgium "suffered against a weak opponent" and "didn’t offer anything at all," despite two crucial saves from Thibaut Courtois and a disallowed Iranian goal. The former defender spared Romelu Lukaku from blame, noting the striker’s equalizer against Egypt but questioning who else in the team delivered a strong performance. Courtois was named man of the match, while Maxim De Cuyper emerged as a standout performer despite not starting. Crasson had tipped De Cuyper to start and praised his impact, saying: "I had announced him as a starter. He was incredible, creating two or three big chances." He added: "It’s still worrying for Belgium. The left-back had the best chances." The match turned on Nathan Ngoy’s red card, which Crasson called "a real shame" as the defender was "starting to establish himself in the team." He warned the incident could "spoil his World Cup" and urged against harsh judgment, praising Ngoy’s potential.

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Looking ahead to the next game against New Zealand, Crasson suggested Arthur Theate or Amadou Onana to replace Ngoy, highlighting Onana’s defensive qualities. He stressed the need for an offensive solution, as Belgium has struggled to score in major tournaments. Crasson criticized Jeremy Doku’s absence and Kevin De Bruyne’s inability to elevate his performance, stating: "When Jeremy Doku isn’t there, nothing much happens. We are very dependent on him." He also expressed frustration with Youri Tielemans, who failed to attempt long-range shots. The consultant concluded that Belgium "loses its bearings in big events," adding: "When De Bruyne and Doku aren’t there or aren’t in form, this team becomes anonymous. That’s the most worrying part." He held out hope for a different approach from Joao Fernandez-Pardo but warned a loss to New Zealand would compound the crisis.

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Crasson: "When Jeremy Doku isn’t there, nothing much happens. We are very dependent on him." Crasson: "When De Bruyne and Doku aren’t there or aren’t in form, this team becomes anonymous."