Hazard compares Yamal to his younger self; backs Mbappe for World Cup golden boot

Former Belgium captain Eden Hazard believes the Red Devils have the quality to challenge for the 2026 World Cup title, while predicting France forward Kylian Mbappe will finish the tournament as its leading scorer.

Speaking to Marca before Belgium’s quarter-final against Spain, Hazard expressed confidence in his country’s blend of youth and experience and said the current squad is capable of making a deep run.

“We have a lot of talent, and Belgium can surprise everyone and go far in the World Cup; I believe in them. We have a good mix of youth and experience. It’s a shame the Hazard brothers aren’t here… but of course I hope they win the title.”

Hazard hails Courtois as world’s best goalkeeper

Hazard also reserved special praise for Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, insisting the Real Madrid shot-stopper remains the finest in world football despite strong competition from Argentina’s Emiliano Martinez.

“Thibaut Courtois is the best. I had the opportunity to play with him, and he had the opportunity to play with me. Emiliano Martinez is a very good goalkeeper, but Courtois is on a higher level. He is the best goalkeeper in the world, and he has proven it time and time again in the most important moments.”

“He is tall, has amazing reflexes, and is also excellent at handling the ball with his feet. Don’t forget that it was thanks to him that we beat Japan in 2018.”

Yamal comparison and Golden Boot prediction

Belgium face Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals, with much of the spotlight expected to fall on teenage star Lamine Yamal.

Hazard said the Barcelona winger reminds him of his own emergence as a young player and encouraged him to continue enjoying his football.

“Lamine Yamal reminds me a bit of my beginnings in the world of football. I was about the same age as him, and everyone expected a lot from me. But in the end, if he enjoys playing on the pitch as he does, I am sure he will perform brilliantly at the World Cup.”

“He is the kind of player that people love to watch. That is the essence of football: to entertain and inspire the fans.”

Hazard also highlighted France winger Ousmane Dembele as another player capable of making a decisive impact but believes Mbappe will ultimately claim the tournament’s top-scorer award.

“Don’t forget Dembele, he is also a top-class player. It’s difficult to predict. We’ll see who wins the World Cup. There are still many candidates for the Golden Boot. Personally, I prefer a player who entertains, dribbles, and enjoys playing, but in this edition of the World Cup, I’m sure that Mbappe will finish the tournament as top scorer.”

Belgium dreaming of another deep run

Looking ahead to Belgium’s prospects, Hazard said he hopes the Red Devils can reach the final and even challenge for the country’s first World Cup title.

“I certainly hope Belgium reaches the final… Why not play against France again? It could be a great match. It won’t be easy, but I hope they reach the final and maybe win the World Cup. If that doesn’t happen, I think Spain will also go far, we’ll see.”

Hazard also spoke briefly about Xabi Alonso, expressing hope the Spanish coach will eventually receive the time needed to build success after facing difficult circumstances.

“I know things were difficult for Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid because he didn’t always get enough time, unlike what happened in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen. The Premier League is also difficult, but he knows it well. I hope he can give us what we need.”