World Cup: Rudi Garcia and De Bruyne react as ‘vital’ Lukaku inspires Belgium draw | OneFootball

Kevin De Bruyne admits Romelu Lukaku was ‘vital’ for Belgium in a 1-1 draw against Egypt in their World Cup debut, but Rudi Garcia insists that the Napoli striker is ‘still not ready’ to start a game.

Belgium were held to a 1-1 draw by Egypt in the World Cup opener on Monday.

Lukaku, who started on the bench, had an immediate impact when he was substituted on at minute 65, contributing to Mohamed Hany’s own goal just 28 seconds later.

Decisive Lukaku in Belgium 1-1 Egypt

“We were not at our best in the first half, but we found different ways to hurt them after the break,” Lukaku’s Napoli and Belgium teammate said at full time via FIFA.com.

“Even if it went down as an own goal, Romelu’s presence was vital. We know how dangerous he can be for our opponent’s defence. If we look at the other matches at this World Cup, though, nothing can be taken for granted, and no game is easy.”

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 15: Kevin De Bruyne #7 of Belgium is challenged by Hamdy Fathy #14 of Egypt during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match between Belgium and Egypt at Seattle Stadium on June 15, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Lukaku played only 64 minutes at club level with Napoli, mostly due to injuries, but still earned a call-up to the World Cup.

“He is not ready yet to start a game,” said Belgium coach Garcia, a former Napoli and Roma boss.

“We did not even expect to have him with us at this tournament. Sixty-four minutes over an entire season is hardly ideal preparation for a World Cup. It is fantastic to have him back, but his body still needs to adapt to the demands of competition.

“He could even have ended up with a brace with that header, but I am delighted for him, and the whole squad feels the same way. Lukaku is hugely important to us.”