Rudi Garcia is in trouble. On Friday, Belgium was held by North Macedonia (0-0) as part of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. A poor performance which relegated the Red Devils behind their evening opponent. Meanwhile, Lucas Stassin distinguished himself with the U21s by scoring a double against Wales (7-0). The Stéphanois, disappointed not to have been called up despite Romelu Lukaku's package, reminded in the best possible way that he deserved his chance.
At a press conference, the French coach did not hide his frustration. “We should have scored. You just need to win the last three games. It’s up to us to score goals on Monday in Cardiff”regretted Rudi Garcia. Lucid remarks, but which are not enough to extinguish the criticism. In the Belgian press, several observers point the finger at his choice to do without the Belgian top scorer of the 2025 calendar year, author of a remarkable start to the season with Saint-Étienne.
“Stassin would have deserved”
Even within the Hopes, the incomprehension is palpable. Romeo Vermant, Stassin's U21 teammate, defended his partner in DH Sports+ : “Lucas Stassin would also have deserved to be called up for the first time, like me. It's up to us to respect the coach's choice and continue to work. But if we continue to play well and score, the choice of Rudi Garcia could become more difficult. »
Behind this absence lies a broader debate: should we exclude a successful player simply because he plays in the second division? The figures speak in favor of the Stéphanois, regular and decisive at each gathering. In the meantime, Garcia will have to quickly find the offensive solution that his selection lacks, starting Monday in Cardiff. Stassin will be on the field again with the U21s against Denmark.
