Peter Vandenbempt criticises multiple Belgium stars after Iran stalemate

Belgium currently sit third in what many consider the weakest group at the FIFA World Cup after consecutive draws with Egypt and Iran. Peter Vandenbempt has delivered a scathing assessment of the Red Devils’ performance, sparing no players from criticism. "Before the Egypt match you could still find excuses, but for this performance there are none," Vandenbempt told . He questioned the team’s efficiency despite goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois standing out. "Okay, we could have scored two or three goals, but Courtois was our standout player. The Devils were the luckiest team because of the disallowed Taremi goal," he continued. Iran had beaten the net before half-time, but the strike was ruled out for offside. Vandenbempt also highlighted individual shortcomings beyond the collective struggle. "Kevin De Bruyne wanted one last World Cup to shine, but the harsh conclusion is that he has not been at his best in either of the two matches. You can’t blame his effort, but his play is far from good."

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He added: "Meunier is another example of a player still searching for his best form. I found it strange he started ahead of Castagne." The commentator reserved some praise for Leander Dendoncker. "Dendoncker was solid, but not decisive enough. It was a shame Ngoy made the wrong decision—he could have brought Taremi back. Apart from that he was outstanding." Romelu Lukaku’s surprise inclusion also drew comment. "It’s clear he wasn’t ready for this kind of match. That’s not his fault—we know where Lukaku comes from—but you feel he lacks the feel and rhythm for top games. The ball bounced awkwardly off his foot and his control was off. Garcia must have thought necessity breaks the rules, but it wasn’t a good idea," Vandenbempt concluded.

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Bondscoach Rudi Garcia had cited efficiency as a key issue after the match. Vandenbempt’s remarks follow Belgium’s second successive draw in Qatar.