Football

World Cup 2022: Is this the last chance for Belgium’s Golden generation?

World Cup 2022: Is this the last chance for Belgium’s Golden generation?

About ten years ago, the Belgium Golden generation was born. We are talking about, of course, football. Belgium has, in the past, presented some very good players, but none of them had real star power.

But, suddenly, Belgium found itself with an array of superstars led by Eden Hazard and Kevin De Bruyne who over the years became one of the very best players at their positions in the world. Hazard’s light, however, started to diminish slowly a few years ago when he suffered through injuries, but De Bruyne is still one of the best midfielders in the world.

Of course, we must not forget Thibaut Courtois who is by many considered the best goalkeeper in the world. That being said, it is noticeable that the Golden generation is waning and the time has most likely passed when considering their best chance of winning a major tournament.

“I have to be honest, I think our best chance of winning the World Cup was four years ago. The team was better back then. Of course, I also believe that we still have enough quality to battle with the biggest teams in the world, however, we have to be the best versions of ourselves, and if we are not, it will be hard to win important matches,” said Eden Hazard whose Belgium team won third place at the 2018 World Cup.

The Real Madrid player, on the other hand, isn’t worried after a lackluster performance versus Canada.

“It was the first match of the tournament, and those are always difficult. We weren’t at our best, but we still won, and that’s what is important. As the tournament progresses, most teams will play better.”

Hazard also pointed out that teams had only limited time to prepare for the Qatar tournament, playing three friendly matches while trying to keep everybody healthy in a couple of weeks.

“That was a dangerous circumstance for everyone when it comes to playing at this kind of tournament without the proper preparation. It can cost you points if you struggle early as we already saw during the first few matches at the World Cup.”

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Can Hazard continue to perform for Belgium?

If anyone in the Belgium squad lost some ground, it’s Eden Hazard. He failed to reimagine himself since moving to Real Madrid three years ago from Chelsea and has struggled with injuries and weight issues that hampered his Real career.

“People will always criticize, even when you play well they will find something to complain about. I just need to focus on playing my best football for Belgium, and I know everything will fall into place.”

Hazard has played 124 matches for his country scoring 33 goals, but when it comes to Real Madrid, he only played a total of six times this season, three matches in the Champions League, and another three in La Liga.

Belgium will face Morocco next, the African team drew 0-0 with Croatia in their first game. In their last match, Belgium will play Croatia, the finalist from four years ago. For that match, the Belgians will have Romelu Lukaku available after their top striker was slowed down by an injury.


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