Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana says he is comfortable stepping into a defensive role if needed at the World Cup after a tactical experiment paid off in Tuesday’s away friendly win over Croatia.
Onana, typically used as a midfield “destroyer,” was deployed as a centre-back for the start of the match in Rijeka. Belgium came away with a 2-0 victory, delivering a performance that was framed as a morale boost ahead of the tournament.
The switch represented a notable departure from the side’s usual 4-3-3 shape. The idea was to test whether that setup could become a workable option at the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Speaking at a press conference, Onana said he felt at home in the new position. He praised the defensive partnership, adding that the combination with Arthur Theate and Nathan Ngoy functioned well and that the team carried out their responsibilities effectively for what he described as a first full dress rehearsal.
Onana also stressed his willingness to adapt. While he identified midfield as his preferred spot, he said he would play wherever the team required him, whether that meant holding the line in defence or moving higher up the pitch if the coach wanted him as a striker.
He further explained that he is most at ease in midfield and believes he can reach the very top in that role. Still, with the World Cup as the immediate priority, he insisted he would not complain if he is asked to play in defence, noting that he also felt comfortable in the position during the game against Croatia.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia said the trial was successful.
Garcia argued that the approach adds variety to Belgium’s attacking and build-up play, particularly because the squad includes players capable of operating effectively within the system.
While acknowledging there are areas that can be improved, Garcia said the key takeaway was that Belgium can use the plan both to begin a match in that configuration and to shift into it during the course of a game—while still producing results.
He added that, because Onana is naturally a midfielder, the tactical flexibility allows the coaching staff to move him around as needed. Garcia pointed to the Croatia match as evidence that Onana possesses the qualities required to carry out the job successfully.
