Belgian coach Rudi Garcia admitted that there is “a matter of trust” in the defense on his side, after they had been fed back on Friday by North Macedonia.
The qualifying campaign of the Red Devils World Cup started with a disappointing 1-1 draw in Skopje.
The first half strike by Maxim de Cuyper was canceled four minutes in time, with the astonishing volley of Ezgjan Alioski who saved a point for the hosts.
Belgium had checked large periods of the competition, but performed under their 2.2 xg, left with Garcia to restore the shortcomings on his side.
“We didn't play well. There are many explanations for this,” he told reporters during his press conference after the game. “If you're up 1-0, you can't give it up.
“With the last pass we have made too many wrong decisions. It is well deserved for North Macedonia.
Shared points today. #Mkdbel pic.twitter.com/7qxqwp4i49
– Belgian Red Devils (@belreddevils) 6 June 2025
“It's a matter of trust. Our defenders need that. I don't want to point out too much to the defense. We also have to be able to bring more offensive. We have the qualities for that.
'Shall I change my system? No, that is not necessary. You can't solve [issues] By adjusting the system. “
Eyebrows were erected when Garcia Kevin De Bruyne and Thomas Meunier replaced just before the hour, although the red Devils boss explained that his decision was made with Monday's collision against Wales in mind.
“There is a lot of quality on the couch,” he added. “I replaced Meunier because he already had a yellow card, and I need it against Wales on Monday because I only have one right back.
“As far as De Bruyne is concerned, I also thought of the game of Monday. 90 minutes of play is twice in this phase of the competition. I also thought we were recovered control after the replacements due to physical superiority.”