Lukaku’s late magic turns Belgium’s World Cup fate in Seattle

Romelu Lukaku has rewritten World Cup history in Seattle, becoming the first player to score four times as a substitute at a single FIFA World Cup. His latest strike came in Belgium’s 1-4 victory over the United States, a result that secured the Red Devils’ third quarter-final appearance in four editions. The Belgian striker, who plays for Club Brugge, added his eighth World Cup goal overall and his fourth as a substitute, extending his own record. No player has ever matched that feat in the tournament’s history. Belgium’s night in Seattle began with a double from Charles De Ketelaere, before Hans Vanaken and Lukaku—both substitutes—sealed the win. Lukaku’s first goal came after a clear error from goalkeeper Matt Freese, while his second was a clinical finish.

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His journey as a World Cup supersub dates back to 2014, when he scored as a substitute against the United States in the round of 16. He has since found the net in every World Cup match he has played, including strikes against New Zealand and Senegal in this edition. Lukaku’s impact extends beyond goals. Despite limited minutes, he remains a key leader for Belgium, embodying the role of the ultimate impact substitute. His performances have made him one of the standout players of World Cup 2026.

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The Red Devils’ victory in Seattle marks their third quarter-final appearance in 12 years, a period that includes near-misses in 2014 and 2018. Their progress is built on resilience and late heroics, with Lukaku at the heart of it. Belgium’s next challenge awaits, with the quarter-finals on the horizon. The question now is whether Lukaku and his teammates can go one step further and finally end their World Cup campaign with a trophy.