World Cup
Ciman’s praise for Belgium’s bold choices in World Cup run
The Belgian national team’s World Cup quarter-final run has drawn praise from an unexpected source. At the microphone after the win, Laurent Ciman did not hold back his admiration for the Diables Rouges’ performance.
The former international, speaking to Sudinfo, began by congratulating the team itself. “Bravo to this Belgian team,” he said, before adding: “I’ll be honest, I thought the coach’s choices were risky, but it paid off. So I tip my hat to him again. He made choices that many people wouldn’t have made.”
Ciman reserved special praise for the midfield trio of Tielemans, Raskin and Onana, who he described as “brilliant” until the latter’s injury. He highlighted Charles De Ketelaere’s two goals, calling the young forward “released” by his performances and noting his qualities. “Then the substitutes in the second half made the difference,” he added.
At 22:00 in Vancouver, Switzerland and Colombia clash for a World Cup quarter-final place
Dennis Ngoy’s deployment in defence was singled out as a key factor in solidifying the back line. Ciman also commended Johan Bakayoko for consistent displays in an Arsenal-like mode and Romelu Lukaku’s continued impact as a “luxury joker” who delivered again. Le Doku’s intelligence in dribbling and selective aggression caught Ciman’s eye. “He did it just when it was needed,” he noted. The performance, in Ciman’s view, marked Belgium’s best of the tournament so far. “Since the start of the tournament, I’ve never seen the Diables Rouges play like this,” he said. “I am very proud of the national team and bravo to everyone, because you deserve it.” Belgium’s World Cup journey continues against Spain in the next round, with the clash set for Friday at 21:00.