Red Devils: two decisive friendly matches before the World Cup

As the 2026 World Cup draws closer, the Belgium national team enters a decisive phase of its World Cup preparation football. Two international friendly matches against the United States and Mexico are on the schedule, giving the Belgium squad the opportunity to fine-tune their combinations and assess their level against two very different opponents.

These matches are far from meaningless: they allow Rudi Garcia Belgium coach and his staff to test certain tactical options, integrate new profiles and gauge the collective dynamic just weeks before a major tournament. Between sporting stakes and supporter expectations, Golden Vegas Sport presents these two fixtures — a genuine barometer of Belgium squad form ahead of the competition.

Two opponents with very different profiles

Where does the Belgium national team stand ahead of the World Cup? One year on from Rudi Garcia's appointment, the Belgium team analysis paints a mixed picture. In the Nations League, Belgium were forced into a play-off against Ukraine just to preserve their place in Group A — a far cry from the performances supporters had hoped for.

Belgium World Cup qualification was equally turbulent. Despite moments of uncertainty, the teammates of Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne ultimately held their nerve, seeing off Wales to secure their place at the tournament.

Three months out from the competition, the Belgian squad flies to the United States for their final preparations. The Belgium friendly matches promise to be fascinating for several reasons, not least because the two opponents offer completely contrasting challenges.

With their athleticism and intensity, the USA will look to impose a high tempo. How will the Belgium national team respond to that pressing in what promises to be a tight encounter? And with both Lukaku and De Bruyne returning from injury, will Belgium player performance be at the required level straight away?

*Odds are subject to change. Event ends: 28 March at 20:30

Important decisions for the manager

Mexico, meanwhile, boast far more technically gifted players, comfortable in possession and capable of dictating play. The question is worth asking: is this long trip across the globe an unnecessary burden for players already deep in the decisive stages of their club season, particularly those involved in the Champions League?

Not entirely — because for several members of the Belgium squad, this is the ultimate chance to stake a claim for a place in the final World Cup squad. The Rudi Garcia Belgium selection also features a notable surprise. Nathan De Cat, the standout performer of the Jupiler Pro League this season, receives his first call-up.

"He has an athletic profile that is quite rare in Belgium. I wanted to see him up close on a daily basis and reward him for what he has been doing. To earn a call-up, you need consistent performances and minutes on the pitch. De Cat ticks every box," said the manager.

It now remains to be seen how he handles his first experience with the Belgium squad — hoping, like every one of his teammates, to make the return journey across the Atlantic in a few weeks' time.

A 25% BetXtra is available on every live bet placed on the Red Devils Belgium matches against the United States and Mexico.

*Odds are subject to change. Event ends: 1 April at 03:30