Belgium defender Zeno Debast says the Red Devils are ready to take on Senegal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, expressing confidence that his side possess the quality to progress from a potentially demanding knockout tie.

The two nations meet on Wednesday, July 1, in Seattle — a fixture that neither squad originally expected heading into the tournament's knockout phase.

An unexpected path to the last 32

Belgium entered the knockout stage after a mixed group campaign. They drew against Egypt and Iran before rediscovering their form with a commanding 5-1 victory over New Zealand, which secured their place in the next round.

The bracket shifted when the Democratic Republic of Congo defeated Uzbekistan, eliminating the possibility of a Belgium versus South Korea tie and instead producing a mouth-watering showdown with the reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions.

Debast's measured confidence

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Debast acknowledged the unusual circumstances surrounding the draw while insisting Belgium have had enough time to prepare thoroughly.