Romelu Lukaku starts for first time in a year, Jérémy Doku out for Belgium v Iran | OneFootball

Romelu Lukaku makes his first Belgium start in over a year against Iran on Sunday at 21:00, with Jérémy Doku ruled out by a respiratory infection. This is Belgium’s second group match.

According to L'Équipe, his last start came on 9 June 2025 in a 4-3 win over Wales. His introduction helped Belgium earn a 1-1 draw with Egypt six days ago, and he is the Red Devils’ record scorer with 90 goals.

Belgium line up in a 4-2-3-1 with Kevin De Bruyne, Alexis Saelemaekers and Leandro Trossard in support. Nicolas Raskin replaces Amadou Onana in midfield, while Maxim De Cuyper of Brighton starts at left-back ahead of Timothy Castagne. Thibaut Courtois is in goal and Youri Tielemans captains.

Iran set up in a 5-4-1 under Amir Ghalenoei after their 2-2 draw with New Zealand. Hossein Kanaani comes into central defence and Ramin Rezaeian starts on the right after a goal and an assist in the opener. Star forward Mehdi Taremi is included.

Also starting for Iran are Beiranvand, Hardani, Khalilzadeh, Nemati, captain Hajsafi, Ghoddos, Ezatolahi and Mohebi.

Source: L'Équipe