Belgium was forced to make a last-minute change to its starting lineup during its FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal against Spain in Los Angeles on Friday.
Hans Vanaken came into the midfield in place of Youri Tielemans, who suffered an injury during the pre-game warm-up.
The extent of the injury was not confirmed by the team but the player could be seen on the team’s bench after kick-off. The 29-year-old midfielder is a central piece in the Belgian midfield, and it was because of his brace that Belgium turned a 2-0 deficit against Senegal in the Round of 32.
Tielemans’ injury further hampered the side’s midfield, which already lost Andre Onana to a knee injury in the previous game against the United States.
Vanaken, who plays for Belgian side Clube Brugge, started the Round of 16 game against the United States and provided an assist and a goal. He also set up another goal during Belgium’s 5-1 win over New Zealand during the group stage.
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Published on Jul 11, 2026