Debast stays, Lukaku skips the turf as Belgium settle in Seattle

Debast stays with the squad in Seattle

Zeno Debast will not be replaced in Belgium's World Cup squad. Despite training individually as he works through his recovery, the centre-back remains a fixed part of the selection and made the trip to Seattle with the rest of the group (1) (4). No late call-ups, no panicked changes, your defensive depth stays intact.

Lukaku keeps his distance at Lumen Field

Romelu Lukaku stayed off the pitch during the squad's stadium visit Sunday. He watched from the sideline while teammates walked the turf. "I never do that," he told a staff member (2) (4). It is a personal ritual, nothing to worry about. He will be on that field when it matters.

The cauldron waiting for you

Lumen Field is no ordinary venue. PSG coach Luis Enrique once cursed that "the ball bounces like a rabbit" on its artificial surface. The stadium holds noise records and the steep stands create a suffocating atmosphere, Belgian media call it intimidating, a genuine factor in your opener against Egypt (3).

Heat plan: sauna and 32°C

Temperatures in Seattle are expected to push past 32°C for the Egypt match. The Belgian staff are preparing the squad with sauna sessions to acclimate. Axel Witsel put it bluntly: "That's what we're in for" (9). The heat could swing either way, ally or enemy, and the staff are treating it seriously (6) (9).

De Bruyne sings Doku's praises

Kevin De Bruyne is relaxed and full of praise for Jérémy Doku ahead of the tournament. "He makes my life easier," De Bruyne said, also commending the national team coach for the atmosphere in camp (7). The playmaker looks sharp, smiling, and ready, exactly how you want him going into a World Cup.

Referee named for the opener

Brazilian official Ramon Abatti will take charge of Belgium's group-stage opener against Egypt (4). A name worth knowing before kickoff.

Group watch: Scotland beat Haiti

In a game described as low on quality, Scotland edged past Haiti in World Cup group-stage action (1). Keep an eye on results around your group, every outcome shapes the path.