Belgium’s World Cup campaign is still alive, but the mood around the squad has changed sharply. A convincing victory over the United States secured a place in the quarter-finals, yet the team will now have to continue without one of its most important midfielders.
Belgium advance, but Onana’s tournament is over
Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 and booked their place in the World Cup quarter-finals. On the pitch, it was one of their strongest performances of the tournament. Off it, the immediate reaction was dominated by concern over Amadou Onana.
The Aston Villa midfielder had to leave the game in the 21st minute after suffering a serious injury. The first signs were already worrying: after the final whistle, he was seen on crutches with his right leg immobilised.
Further medical checks confirmed the worst-case scenario. Onana has torn the anterior cruciate ligament in his knee and is expected to be out for around seven to eight months.
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Major problem for Belgium and Aston Villa
For Belgium, this is a heavy blow before the quarter-final against Spain. Onana had been central to Rudi Garcia’s midfield structure, giving the team physical power, defensive security and control in the middle of the pitch.
His absence will force Belgium to adjust their plan at the most demanding stage of the tournament. Replacing his athletic profile and ball-winning ability will not be straightforward.
Aston Villa will also feel the consequences. Unai Emery had planned to build much of his midfield around Onana, but the injury changes the situation immediately. With such a long recovery period ahead, the club may now need to reconsider its transfer plans and look for additional reinforcement.
Onana joined Aston Villa in July 2024. Since then, he has made 72 appearances and scored seven goals. Last season, he played an important role in Villa’s fourth-place Premier League finish, which secured direct qualification for the Champions League league phase. The Birmingham club also won the Europa League, beating Freiburg in the final.