Dodi Lukebakio shines as a supersub, far from being Arjen Robben

Dodi Lukebakio regained his effectiveness after a somewhat frustrating 2026 World Cup, scoring a superb goal in the first match managed by Mark van Bommel, recalling his status as a “supersub”. The goal, coming from a routine action, left the defenders without answer.

The defenders, however, cannot find the solution and the “special” of Lukebakio often goes through, as even the French left‑back Lucas Digne points out.

The choices of Mark van Bommel

Mark van Bommel made the bold decision to start Mika Godts and Diego Moreira, placing the Belgian Dodi Lukebakio on a right flank he is not accustomed to covering. Diego Moreira was not as convincing as in the round of 16 against Senegal.

“It’s a bit different since it was the first match of Mark van Bommel. Everyone gives everything in training to convince him and every competitor hopes to start, of course,” said the Benfica winger after the match.

Statistics and prospects

“No, I am not Arjen Robben, you have to respect the great player he was. I do my thing, I try to be myself and it is a pleasure to be compared to such a great player,” added Lukebakio, smiling.

In 2026, he scored five of his seven international goals, including four after coming on as a substitute, confirming his decisive impact as a joker.

Lucas Digne was warned that the “special” of Lukebakio often goes through, while Belgium will face France this Monday at 20 h 45, according to calendrier.be.

If Lukebakio secures a place in the starting lineup, he will be able to prove that he can shine from the kickoff, while Diego Moreira could become the joker again who was so popular in the United States.