Romelu Lukaku Plays Key Role but Not Yet Ready to Start

Sunday, June 21, 2026

Romelu Lukaku played a key role off the bench in Belgium's 1-1 draw with Egypt but is unlikely to start against Iran due to limited fitness from minimal club minutes last season. Belgium coach Rudi Garcia emphasized Lukaku’s need for gradual reintegration while considering midfield changes to strengthen the lineup for today’s crucial World Cup match.

Romelu Lukaku played a crucial role in Belgium’s recent match against Egypt but is not expected to start in their upcoming World Cup game against Iran. The former Manchester United, Chelsea, and Everton striker entered the game against Egypt in Seattle and quickly influenced the outcome by forcing an own goal that helped Belgium secure a 1-1 draw. Despite his impact off the bench, Belgium’s head coach Rudi Garcia indicated that Lukaku is not yet ready to start due to limited playing time in the preceding season.

Lukaku, Belgium’s all-time leading goalscorer with 90 goals, appeared in only 64 minutes of club football for Napoli last season, having been sidelined by injury. Garcia acknowledged Lukaku’s importance to the squad but emphasized that the striker’s fitness and conditioning have yet to reach a level suitable for a full match at this tournament. “Sixty-four minutes over an entire season is hardly ideal preparation for a World Cup,” Garcia stated, adding that Lukaku’s body still needs to adapt to the demands of competitive play.

While Lukaku could have added to his tally with a headed chance against Egypt, his presence alone was seen as vital by Garcia, who noted that the team had not expected to have him available for the tournament. The coach also highlighted the challenging nature of the upcoming matches, stressing that no game can be taken lightly.

Belgium’s squad selection for the Iran match also presents a key decision regarding midfield options. Garcia is considering whether to include Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin or Aston Villa’s Amadou Onana in the starting lineup. Raskin described the choice as one influenced by their differing playing styles and emphasized the priority of the team’s performance and securing three points. “Of course, I’d like to play, everyone does,” Raskin said, leaving the decision to the coach.

The Belgium versus Iran match is scheduled to take place today at 8 p.m. local time at the LA Stadium, with the team hoping to build on their result against Egypt while managing Lukaku’s gradual return to full fitness.