Belgium Football Team's Journey to World Cup Glory and Future Prospects

I still remember that Wednesday, December 18 at 5 p.m. like it was yesterday. The Ninoy Aquino Stadium might seem like an unusual setting to discuss Belgium's football journey, but that's exactly where I found myself watching their crucial World Cup qualifier while attending an international sports conference in Manila. As the golden generation of Belgian football enters what might be their final chapter together, I can't help but reflect on their remarkable journey and what lies ahead for this talented squad.

The Red Devils' rise to becoming FIFA's number one ranked team for four consecutive years between 2015-2019 was nothing short of spectacular. Having followed their progression since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, I've witnessed firsthand how this team transformed from dark horses to genuine contenders. Their third-place finish in Russia 2018 felt particularly significant - not just because of the achievement itself, but because of the manner in which they played. That stunning comeback against Japan and the tactical masterclass against Brazil showcased a team peaking at the right moment. What impressed me most was their squad depth - with 23 players across Europe's top leagues, they could genuinely field two competitive international sides. The statistics speak for themselves: during their golden period, they maintained an impressive 75% win rate across major tournaments, scoring 68 goals in their 30 World Cup qualifying matches between 2014-2018.

Looking at their current situation, I'm both excited and concerned about their future prospects. The core group that brought them so much success - Hazard, De Bruyne, Lukaku, Courtois - are all in their thirties now. While their experience is invaluable, the physical demands of international football are relentless. I've noticed some worrying trends in their recent performances - the 2022 World Cup group stage exit was particularly disappointing, though not entirely surprising given their aging squad and injury concerns. However, what gives me hope is the emerging talent. Players like Jeremy Doku, who's just 21 but already showing flashes of brilliance at Manchester City, and 19-year-old midfield prospect Romeo Lavia could form the backbone of the next generation. The Belgian football federation's investment in youth development appears to be paying off, with their U-21 team reaching the European Championship semifinals last year.

From my perspective, the key challenge for Belgium isn't just about replacing aging stars - it's about maintaining the unique team chemistry that made them so successful. I've always believed that their multicultural composition, reflecting Belgium's linguistic and regional diversity, was their secret weapon rather than a weakness. The way players from different backgrounds gelled together created a special dynamic that bigger football nations often struggle to replicate. Their tactical flexibility under Roberto Martinez was particularly impressive, though I must admit I have reservations about whether they've found the right successor. The new manager will need to balance integrating young talent while respecting the legacy of their golden generation - it's a delicate transition that few teams manage successfully.

What fascinates me most about Belgium's situation is how it mirrors broader trends in international football. The era of golden generations is giving way to more sustainable team-building approaches. While I'm optimistic about their chances in the upcoming European Championship, I think their real test will come in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The infrastructure remains strong - their domestic league continues to produce quality players, and their coaching education system is among Europe's best. If they can navigate this transition period wisely, I believe they could remain competitive at the highest level, though perhaps not with the same dominance they enjoyed during their peak years. The memory of watching their matches in unexpected places like Manila reminds me that football's appeal transcends borders, and Belgium's journey continues to capture imaginations worldwide.