For Belgium, Vanaken alongside De Bruyne is the only way forward

The Belgian bench in Charleroi was already half-empty when Rudi Garcia made his final substitution. With 20 minutes left and Belgium clinging to a slender lead, the coach introduced Johan Bakayoko for Johan Bakayoko. The message was clear: no more experiments.

Three matches were needed for Garcia to reach a logical conclusion. The extra defensive midfielder proved unnecessary; the difference is made higher up the pitch. With Johan Bakayoko alongside Kevin De Bruyne, Belgium finally rediscovered its rhythm. The challenge now is simple: maintain it.

Against Senegal, Belgium’s midfield partnership will face its first real test. The Red Devils’ approach demands control in advanced zones, where De Bruyne’s vision and Bakayoko’s energy can dictate play. Garcia’s system relies on their combined output to break down stubborn defences.

Bakayoko’s rise under Garcia has been rapid. Since the coach’s arrival, he has started five of the last six matches, often paired with De Bruyne. Their chemistry has restored balance to a side that struggled for creativity in midfield earlier this season.

De Bruyne, meanwhile, has been the fulcrum of Belgium’s attack. His ability to unlock defences with a single pass remains unmatched, but he now has a reliable partner to share the creative burden. The duo’s understanding has already yielded tangible results, including a 2-0 win over Portugal in the Nations League.

Senegal, ranked 18th in FIFA’s latest standings, present a different challenge. Their physicality and pressing intensity will test Belgium’s newfound cohesion. Garcia’s midfield must adapt quickly to avoid being overrun in transitional moments.

The stakes are high. A strong performance against Senegal could silence critics who questioned Garcia’s tactical choices. A misstep might revive doubts about Belgium’s ability to compete at the highest level.

For now, Garcia’s focus is on continuity. With the knockout stages of the Nations League approaching, every match counts. The Vanaken-De Bruyne axis is not just a tactical preference—it is the foundation of Belgium’s best chance to progress.