Charles De Ketelaere
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Expected to start Saturday
De Ketelaere is expected to start Belgium's group stage finale against New Zealand on Saturday, with coach Rudi Garcia indicating he will take precedence over Lukaku after being unable to start against Iran due to minor issues, according to RTBF. "If Romelu started against the Iranians, it's because Charles couldn't start. That's why Charles didn't come on either. We're going to get him [Charles] back. "
Analysis: De Ketelaere was limited to a substitute role against Iran after recovering just in time from a minor fitness issue, but coach Rudi Garcia's comments indicate he is in line to reclaim his spot in the starting XI for the decisive showdown with New Zealand. His return would give Belgium a more dynamic and technically gifted presence in the final third as they look to punch their ticket to the knockout rounds.
Selected for bench
De Ketelaere (undisclosed) is on the bench for Sunday's match against Iran.
Analysis: De Ketelaere was dealing with some minor issues Saturday but has recovered in time for Sunday's contest, earning a spot on the bench. That said, Romelu Lukaku sees the start in his place after De Ketelaere started in the opener. Lukaku is unlikely to play the full 90, which means space could be made for De Ketelaere to enter later in the match.
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