Belgium’s 0-0 draw with Iran sparks criticism of De Bruyne’s form

Belgium’s World Cup campaign is off to a sluggish start after a 0-0 draw with Iran left the team under intense scrutiny. The two-time group-stage exit specialists managed just two points from their opening two matches, prompting sharp criticism over their lack of efficiency. commentator Peter Vandenbempt was scathing in his assessment. “They’ve completely dug their own hole,” he said. “Belgium should have made a statement after missing their first chance, like the Netherlands and Spain did. It was a total failure.” Niels Poissonnier, football editor of **, echoed the frustration. “Two points from six in what is arguably the weakest group at this World Cup? Really?” Belgium’s players admitted to disappointment in the dressing room. Thibaut Courtois said: “It was quiet in there—only the manager spoke briefly. We gave everything. We faced a low block with ten men defending and a goalkeeper who had a good game.”

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Romelu Lukaku highlighted the team’s impatience. “We played with too much emotion,” he said. “We could have switched play faster and played one more pass. That’s what we need to improve—against Egypt we also played with too much emotion.” Imke Courtois, an analyst for , described the situation as worrying. “We were already in doubt about expecting too much, but the friendlies gave us hope. Now you see we lack real threat to finish chances. Fortunately, we still have a match against New Zealand that matters.” Kevin De Bruyne also acknowledged Belgium’s haste. “We need to learn to be more patient on the ball,” he said. “They played with five at the back, but there was just no space to work with. I understand why we pushed so hard, but we still have the chance to turn this around.”

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Former international Toby Alderweireld issued a stark warning. “It’s five to midnight for Belgium,” he said. “We rely on big players like Lukaku and De Bruyne. I have to say De Bruyne isn’t at his level yet—and he knows it. He’s not decisive, and you need that.” Belgium now face a must-win scenario against New Zealand in their final group game. Courtois stressed the importance of early goals. “We’ve struggled against low blocks in qualifiers too. It’s up to us to break them open quickly—because once you score early, I’m sure the outcome changes,” he said.