Belgium bagged a 6-0 win against Liechtenstein in their World Cup qualifying match on September 4 at Rheinpark Stadion, Vaduz.
Youri Tielemans, who scored a brace against Liechtenstein, was seen wearing the captain’s armband for his nation for the first time in the match.
Earlier this month, Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia appointed Tielemans as the permanent captain of the national team. The French manager’s decision came as a surprise to many, considering there are experienced players like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois, who have all worn the armband over the last few years, in the squad.
Following the win against Liechtenstein, De Bruyne spoke about Garcia’s decision to award the captaincy to Tielemans and told Sporza,
“He spoke with me and Romelu Lukaku earlier this week and told us his decision. That’s okay. There wasn’t a vote, you know. The coach has made a decision that could last for several years. It’s a long-term choice, for consistency,” as per GOAL.
Garcia also explained why he opted for Tielemans to be the captain over senior players in his squad, mentioning that the Aston Villa star ‘enjoys unanimity within the group and said,
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“He has a good relationship with everyone in the group. He enjoys unanimity within the group. Even though other guys remain important leaders, like Kevin De Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois, Romelu Lukaku… but Youri gets the armband.”
What did Youri Tielemans say about becoming Belgium’s new captain?
Tielemans stated that while he is ‘proud’ of receiving the captaincy, it would not change his personality.
“There are few things more beautiful in a career than this. There were five names and I’m the chosen one. It wouldn’t have made any difference to me. I’ll always be the same. I’m proud, that’s for sure, but it won’t change my personality.”
Tielemans has made a total of 78 appearances for Belgium, during which he netted 12 goals.
After their victory against Liechtenstein, Belgium will now face Kazakhstan in their next World Cup qualifiers on September 7.
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