Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku was decisive in helping his team advance to the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. after overcoming an adverse score and beating Senegal 3-2, which maintained a 2-0 lead for more than 80 minutes.
Lukaku was Belgium’s savior by scoring his team’s first goal in the 86th minute, after entering at the beginning of the second half.
Now, Belgium prepares to face United States in the round of 16 of the World Cup. The match will be played next Monday, July 6 at 6:00 p.m.
After the match, Lukaku spoke not only about the match and his contribution to Belgium’s victory, but also about personal aspects and how he has faced the season.
Regarding Belgium’s victory, Lukaku said, according to the media Infobaewhich is “one of the most beautiful victories”, and valued the team’s effort and its ability to overcome an adverse score.
“I have already experienced enough games of this type. It was intense, but we showed character and determination. We need victories like this to unite the group even more. “These are the most beautiful victories for us and for the fans,” said the Belgian striker.
Lukaku also praised Senegal’s performance, calling it “one of the best teams in the World Cup“, and highlighted his technique and physical level.
But what was most surprising was that Lukaku assured, on a personal level, that he did not expect to play in the World Cup and that He feels happy to be in the competition and contribute goals to his team.
“To be honest, I’m happy to be here. Because, well, if you look at how my season has gone, normally, I should never have been here at the World Cup. So for me, being here, playing, helping my team, being decisive, being decisive in a game, yeah, it’s great.“Lukaku said.
At first, Lukaku was in doubt to participate in the World Cup due to his season with Napoli in Italy. until coach Rudi García confirmed his call-up.
“We are talking about the ‘9’ of the national team, the all-time top scorer of the Belgian national team. He is an important player in terms of leadership and we couldn’t make a list without Lukaku. It’s clear,” the coach had declared.