Belgium — the golden generation is gone and the next one has nothing to prove
The golden generation of De Bruyne, Hazard, Lukaku never won a major tournament. In 2026 that generation is largely gone — and the new one may be more dangerous for it.
For a decade Belgium carried the label of football's most talented underachievers. In 2026 that generation is largely gone. What remains is younger, less individually brilliant, and perhaps — counterintuitively — more likely to succeed because the weight of unfulfilled expectation has finally lifted.
Tactical Identity
Strength: Kevin De Bruyne. If he is fit and available for the majority of the tournament, Belgium's ceiling rises significantly. A fit De Bruyne operating in a team built to use him is one of the most dangerous combinations in international football.
Weakness: The transition between the golden generation and the next group is still incomplete. Belgium's squad has individual talent but lacks the collective cohesion that comes from playing together for years.
"The most interesting rebuilt squad in the tournament. No longer the golden generation's burden to carry. No longer expected to win. Just a talented group of players with something to prove." — Viviana Reyes
Key Players
Kevin De Bruyne — Midfielder, if fit still the best in the world. Everything depends on his fitness.
Romelu Lukaku — Striker, goals at every level. Still the most physical presence up front.
Lois Openda — Forward, the next generation arriving with pace and directness.
Viva's Verdict
"Belgium will qualify from the group stage. A quarter-final is the realistic ceiling unless De Bruyne produces a tournament that reminds everyone what he is capable of. If he does, Belgium can beat anyone over ninety minutes."
The Road Back
Belgian football is in good structural shape. The academy system that produced the golden generation continues to function and the next wave of talent is already emerging. The pressure has been released. That combination is often more dangerous than talent alone.
