Dodi Lukebakio’s World Cup frustration grows after limited Belgium role | OneFootball

Dodi Lukebakio arrived at the 2026 World Cup aiming to cement his place with Belgium, yet he has featured only once in three group matches. The Benfica winger is enduring a frustrating tournament after targeting a starting berth.

Signed from Sevilla for 20 million euros on the final day of the 2025 summer window, he felt he had a strong case to impress head coach Rudi Garcia. According to Walfoot, he is among those most disappointed by limited minutes, though he remains diligent in training and awaits a chance.

In March friendlies he scored two against the United States and one against Mexico, then struck in a warm-up with Tunisia despite only 17 minutes on the pitch. A fractured left ankle in November had threatened his call-up, and he admitted he barely had the chance to show himself at Benfica, yet he recovered in time to fulfil a childhood dream by playing at a World Cup.

Against Egypt he stayed on the bench for 90 minutes despite Belgium’s attacking issues. In the next game, against Iran, he replaced Alexis Saelemaekers on 58 minutes, but eight minutes later Nathan Ngoy was sent off, forcing a reshuffle that left Lukebakio isolated up front until the final whistle.

He did not come on in the third group match against New Zealand. Game time remains scarce.

Source: Glorioso 1904