Tom Saintfiet's Senegal plan: Lukaku on the bench, Doku on the pitch

In Seattle’s damp evening air, the Belgian national team prepares for a World Cup knockout tie against Senegal. The match kicks off at 22:00 Belgian time on Wednesday, with both sides knowing this could be a brutal encounter.

The two teams are close on paper, but one detail may tip the balance in Belgium’s favour. While the Senegalese squad must travel nearly 4,000 kilometres from their base camp to reach Seattle, the Belgian players will prepare in far more comfortable conditions. The long journey demands time, organisation and energy — factors that could weigh heavily in a tight contest.

Tom Saintfiet, the Belgian head coach of Mali at the time of the interview, expects a major challenge. Speaking to *La Dernière Heure*, he praised Senegal’s attacking threats, naming Sadio Mané, Ismaila Jackson, Pape Gueye and M’Baye Niang. “Senegal has great offensive quality, but we must not forget that their midfield can be dominant,” he said. “It will be a real test for Belgium to contain them.”

Saintfiet proposed a midfield trio of Onana, Tielemans and De Bruyne, though he admitted he has not been impressed by Tielemans during this World Cup. “I still believe in that combination, even if Tielemans hasn’t stood out so far.”

He highlighted Senegal’s reliance on width. “Their full-backs push high and apply pressure. That could be decisive. Another factor is Senegal’s deep bench — most players play in Europe’s top five leagues. Belgium has fewer options off the bench to maintain intensity, especially if extra time is needed.”

Saintfiet suggested an unconventional approach: “I would put Lukaku on the bench. Senegal likes to control the game, which could work in Belgium’s favour. Using quick transitions, Belgium’s best weapon, we can trouble them.” He proposed starting with Johan Bakayoko and Jérémy Doku to exploit the flanks.

Senegal, he warned, is the toughest possible draw. “It’s a 50-50 game, but don’t forget they conceded six goals in the group stage.”

The match will be broadcast live on Walfoot.be from 22:00 on 1 July.