M. De Cuyper

Belgium arrive at the 2026 World Cup in a phase of transition, leaning increasingly on a younger, club-tested generation rather than the so-called golden era of years past. Our AI model frames them as outsiders rather than favourites: a 1.2% chance of lifting the trophy, a 4.6% probability of reaching the final and a 12.3% shot at the semi-finals. Those numbers reflect a side capable of deep runs on its day but lacking the consistency of the very top contenders heading into the tournament.

The squad blends Premier League quality with in-form continental talent. Jérémy Doku, sharp at Manchester City with five goals and five assists and a 7.39 rating, is the obvious game-breaker out wide. Lille's Mathys Fernandez-Pardo has been the standout producer with eight goals and five assists, while Nicolas Raskin anchors the midfield from Rangers on a strong 7.46 rating with six goals and seven assists. Diego Moreira, freshly called up after a creative season at Strasbourg (seven assists), adds further depth and a fresh option in midfield.

Drawn into Group G, Belgium should fancy their chances of progressing, but the knockout road is where the math turns cautious. With roughly a one-in-eight likelihood of reaching the last four, a quarter-final or semi-final exit looks the realistic ceiling. This is a talented, rebuilding Belgium — dangerous on their day, but not yet equipped to be crowned champions.