Belgium have suffered a major setback at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after midfielder Amadou Onana was ruled out for the rest of the tournament with a serious knee injury.
The 24-year-old sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee during Belgium’s 4-1 victory over co-hosts the United States in the Round of 16 on Monday. Onana was forced off early in the match after picking up the injury.
The Belgian Football Federation confirmed the extent of the damage following medical examinations.
“Unfortunately, the medical examinations have confirmed that Amadou has suffered a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. This is devastating news, both for him personally and for the team,” Belgium team doctor Brahim Hacene said in a statement.
Hacene added that Belgium’s medical staff had already begun discussions with Onana and his club, Aston Villa, to coordinate the midfielder’s treatment and rehabilitation.
“We immediately consulted with Amadou and with Aston Villa to agree on the best approach to his recovery. Over the coming days, we will jointly determine the next steps in his medical treatment and rehabilitation.”
Despite being ruled out of the tournament, Onana will remain with the Belgium squad in North America until at least their quarter-final clash against Spain.
Belgium face Spain in Los Angeles on Friday, with head coach Rudi Garcia now tasked with reshaping his midfield following the loss of one of his most influential players.
