World Cup 2026: Key Belgium defender Zeno Debast set to miss opener against Egypt

Belgium could be without key defender Zeno Debast for their opening matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the Sporting Lisbon star continues his recovery from injury.

The 22-year-old centre-back is reportedly making strong progress in his rehabilitation programme following the thigh muscle injury he sustained on May 11 while playing for Sporting Lisbon. However, his chances of featuring in Belgium’s first two group-stage matches remain slim.

Debast is now racing against time to regain full fitness ahead of the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

According to reports in Belgium, the most realistic target for the defender’s return is Belgium’s final Group G clash against New Zealand on June 27.

That timeline would likely rule him out of the Red Devils’ opening World Cup encounter against Egypt, as well as their second group fixture against Iran.

Medical staff are said to be optimistic about his recovery, but there is a cautious approach surrounding his return to competitive action after initial assessments projected a minimum six-week absence.

Belgium have been drawn in a challenging Group G alongside Egypt, Iran and New Zealand, with Debast considered an important figure in the team’s defensive setup.

His possible absence for the early stages of the competition could force Belgium coach to reshuffle his backline as the European side aims to make a strong start at the expanded 48-team tournament.