Lukaku’s tournament record has swung between decisive impact and difficult nights. The report describes a forward who has changed games from the bench, adding power, pressing and a focal point to Belgium’s attack when defenders are tiring.
That influence makes the decision harder. Starting Lukaku would give Belgium a recognised reference point, but it would also place significant physical demands on a player whose preparation has reportedly been disrupted. Holding him back, meanwhile, could preserve his sharpest qualities for the final stages.
Belgium’s recent World Cup story with Lukaku has been built on extremes. His best tournament moments showed a forward capable of stretching elite defences and punishing hesitation. His worst became symbols of pressure, with missed opportunities overshadowing the work that created them.
Lukaku’s own words offer another clue. Reflecting on a decisive penalty situation, he said: “Não estou mentalmente pronto para momentos tão difíceis e decisivos”. That comment should not define his entire role, but it underlines the challenge facing Garcia: selecting the player with the greatest potential impact while managing the psychological and physical demands around him.
The coach does not need to choose between trust and caution completely. A managed starting role, with clear expectations and an early replacement plan, could allow Lukaku to influence the game without making Belgium dependent on him for every attacking phase.
Against the United States, the key storyline will be whether Garcia trusts Lukaku from the opening whistle or once again treats him as a late-game weapon. His fitness may decide the selection, but his response on the pitch could shape Belgium’s entire campaign.