World Cup
Why Jeremy Doku’s tournament hopes are fading for Belgium
Jeremy Doku's performance against Senegal was described as his worst of the tournament, with the Belgian winger appearing ineffective on both flanks. Coach Rudi Garcia admitted on Wednesday that Doku lacked full fitness and would need to be replaced, signalling a possible bench role for the upcoming USA clash.
Belgium entered the group match against Senegal having already played three games without Doku, as Garcia highlighted on Monday, making it four matches in total where the winger was absent. Prior to the Senegal encounter, Doku had been invisible versus Egypt, completely absent against Iran, and minimally involved in the win over New Zealand, underscoring his limited contribution to the tournament so far.
Garcia explained that Doku did not have “90 minutes in his legs,” suggesting a fitness shortfall that forced the coach to consider alternatives. The Belgian side also noted that Maxim De Cuyper’s positioning on the left left Doku uncomfortable, contributing to his hesitancy on that side.
In the second half, Doku refrained from dribbling on either wing, appearing reluctant to take on defenders despite the coach’s earlier suggestion to emulate Kevin De Bruyne’s early substitution as a strong message. His lack of offensive thrust meant he was the only attacking player who failed to truly participate in the match’s decisive moments.
At the final whistle, Garcia reiterated his defensive stance, stating that the father’s presence was a “blessing” rather than a burden, while also acknowledging the emotional strain from his newborn’s arrival and travel to London. The coach warned that Belgium could no longer afford to start the next game against the United States with Doku occupying the number 10 role.
Garcia’s comments about Doku’s early peak and predictable dip were accompanied by remarks that Leandro Trossard is more effective on the left and that Dodi Lukebakio has already advocated for his own inclusion after the Senegal match. The federation and staff were urged to protect Doku, who is experiencing his first World Cup after only 18 minutes of play in 2022, to preserve his potential for future fixtures.
The pressure of inflated expectations, stemming from Doku’s strong season at Manchester City and promising pre‑tournament performances, appears to have weighed heavily on his confidence. As the tournament progresses, Belgium’s tactical options will likely shift away from relying on Doku as the X‑factor, focusing instead on alternatives who have already featured consistently.