Thierry Henry hails Belgium’s freedom after New Zealand thrashing

In a lively Brussels café, former French forward Thierry Henry observed Belgium’s 5‑1 victory over New Zealand, lauding the team’s liberated style as they clinched a spot in the World Cup 2026 round of 16 on Wednesday under coach Rudi Garcia. Henry praised Leandro Trossard’s excellence, Jeremy Doku’s extra threat and Romelu Lukaku’s emergence as the attacking leader they had been waiting for. "Trossard was excellent, Doku provided extra threat and Lukaku was finally the attacking leader we were waiting for," he said. He added that Belgium showed character after two tougher matches, with Kevin De Bruyne still the boss while the whole squad answered the challenge. "If they keep this intensity, they can go far at this World Cup," Henry asserted.

Amadou Onana faces Senegal: a personal clash at World Cup

Henry said he will always keep Belgium in his heart, recalling his participation in the Belgian group at the 2022 and 2018 World Cups. He noted that he built strong bonds with several players, especially being particularly close to Romelu Lukaku. Belgium now meets Senegal in the round of 16, a side that arrived after a 5‑0 win over Iraq and earlier defeats to France (3‑1) and Norway (3‑2). The African team promises a tough contest for the Red Devils.

Opta crowns France top World Cup favorite as Oranje faces slim odds

The winner of the Belgium‑Senegal clash will face the victor of the United States‑Bosnia‑Herzegovina match, scheduled for Thursday at 02:00, while the Belgium‑Senegal match itself is set for Wednesday at 22:00.