Belgium XI vs Mexico – Predicted lineup and team news

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·31 March 2026

Belgium XI vs Mexico – Predicted lineup and team news

Belgium and Mexico meet in a World Cup warm-up friendly at Soldier Field in Chicago, with both teams using the game to fine-tune plans for the 2026 tournament.

The Red Devils head into this fixture on a high after a 5-2 win over the United States in their opening game of the international break. Emerging players such as Zeno Debast, Amadou Onana, Charles De Ketelaere and Dodi Lukebakio stood out in that match, highlighting coach Rudi García’s intention to mix rising stars with the remaining figures from the country’s golden generation.

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Belgium team news

García is expected to rotate his side, with big names like Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku and De Ketelaere likely to start on the bench and be used later in the game.

Youri Tielemans, now fully fit, could return to the starting XI and line up alongside his Aston Villa colleague Amadou Onana, taking on the more advanced midfield role while experienced Axel Witsel provides balance behind them.

At the back, Koni De Winter and Arthur Theate are candidates to start in central defence, and Timothy Castagne may come in at right-back in place of Thomas Meunier.

Further forward, Lukebakio is expected to keep his spot on the right after scoring twice on Saturday, with promising Ajax winger Mika Godts likely to start on the left.

Lois Openda, who has had a difficult loan spell at Juventus, could lead the line as he looks to rebuild his confidence.

In goal, Matz Sels is in contention to replace Senne Lammens, with García still weighing up who should act as backup to the injured Thibaut Courtois at the World Cup. Leandro Trossard of Arsenal has pulled out of the squad and will not be involved.