Rudi Garcia weighs options as Doku misses Belgium clash with Iran

Rudi Garcia faces a must-win clash for Belgium against Iran without Jérémy Doku, who is sidelined with a respiratory infection. The Belgium head coach admitted at his pre-match press conference that focus must remain on available players. "I want to talk about the players who are here and I have enough quality among them," Garcia stated. Garcia’s tactical headache comes as Belgium prepare for a critical Group E fixture. Doku’s absence leaves a winger short, prompting analysis from Hayk Milkon and Peter Vandenbempt on possible solutions. Milkon suggested shifting Johan Bakayoko to the left, Charles De Ketelaere to the right, and Johan Fernandez-Pardo as the central striker. Imke Courtois of proposed an alternative: returning Leandro Trossard to the left flank and deploying Fernandez-Pardo as the deepest forward. Courtois also questioned whether Garcia might opt for Dodi Lukebakio or Jérémy Saelemaekers over alternatives like João Moreira.

Belgium held to 0-0 draw with Iran, fans blame Godts snub

Another option floated involves replacing Kevin De Bruyne in midfield with Hans Vanaken, pairing Youri Tielemans and Simon Onana or Albert Sambi Lokonga. De Bruyne could then drift higher as support for Fernandez-Pardo, with Trossard moving centrally from his preferred left wing.

Belgium held to draw by Iran as Lukaku criticises emotional play

The match, to be played in the world’s most expensive stadium, carries knockout implications. A convincing win over Iran is seen as vital to keep pressure on Egypt in Group E. Garcia’s final XI remains uncertain as he weighs risk against necessity in a high-stakes encounter.