The unexpected change raised plenty of questions, as Belgium lost one of its most important midfield figures before a massive clash against a Spain side chasing another World Cup title. Youri Tielemans was expected to play a crucial role for Belgium against Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final, but the midfielder was suddenly removed from the starting lineup shortly before kickoff. The unexpected change raised plenty of questions, as Belgium lost one of its most important midfield figures before a massive clash against a Spain side chasing another World Cup title.
Belgium entered the quarter-final hoping to continue its impressive turnaround at the tournament, but the team suffered an immediate blow before the match even started. Tielemans was forced out of the lineup after picking up an injury during the warm-up, leaving coach Rudi Garcia with no choice but to make a late adjustment.
According to reports from BEIN Sports France’s John Ferreira, Tielemans experienced discomfort during the warm-up and was removed from the starting XI despite initially being named in the lineup.
The change came only minutes before kickoff, with Belgium confirming the midfielder’s absence through its official channels. The Red Devils stated: “Following an injury during the warm-up, Youri Tielemans is replaced in the starting XI by Hans Vanaken.”
The decision meant Hans Vanaken replaced Tielemans in midfield, joining Nicolas Raskin and Kevin De Bruyne as Belgium attempts to maintain its balance against one of the strongest teams in the competition.