For Belgium, that has often been the real question. The talent in attack has rarely been in doubt, but tournament football punishes loose structure.
That cautious tone matters. Belgium do not need to be spectacular in warm-up games. They need clarity: where the press starts, how the midfield protects the back line, and how quickly the shape resets when possession is lost. If those basics are improving, that is the most encouraging takeaway.
Even with careful language from the camp, Lukaku’s return changes the picture. Belgium have long looked more direct and more complete when they have a true focal point up front.
That is the sensible approach. Lukaku’s value is not only in goals. He gives Belgium depth, hold-up play and a target for runners around him. A fit version of him changes how opponents defend.
The mood around Belgium seems better, but nobody inside the camp appears ready to overstate one friendly. That is probably the healthiest sign of all. This squad still has high-end quality, yet its tournament chances may depend less on flair than on discipline, fitness and game management.
Next up, reports suggest, is a friendly against Tunisia before Belgium turn fully toward their World Cup opener against Egypt. That is where the real measure will come.