Belgian national team midfielder Amadou Onana has been ruled out for the remainder of the World Cup after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during a match against the United States. According to official statements from the Belgian selection, the midfielder will remain with the squad through at least the quarter-final stage as medical staff determine his long-term rehabilitation plan.
How did the injury occur?
Onana sustained the injury approximately 20 minutes into the round of 16 match against the United States. Following an awkward landing, his knee buckled under his weight, forcing him to leave the pitch. According to reports from the team, he was visibly distressed on the bench and was later seen using crutches as the match concluded.
Despite the severity of the injury, teammate Zeno Debast shared an image of Onana on Instagram shortly after the diagnosis, captioned: “Still smiling, still standing, still a warrior.”
What is the medical prognosis for Onana?
Medical examinations have confirmed a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The Belgian selection officially described the news as “terrible” for both the player and the team. While Onana is sidelined for the tournament, he has opted to stay with his teammates for the immediate future. The medical staff and his club are currently coordinating the next steps for his surgical and recovery process.
How are teammates responding to the loss?
The Belgian squad has expressed significant support for the midfielder, highlighting his role as a key personality within the group. Captain Youri Tielemans stated that the team intends to “fight until the end” for Onana. During the match against the U.S., Romelu Lukaku displayed Onana’s jersey while celebrating a decisive goal as a gesture of solidarity.
Nicolas Raskin noted that Onana’s influence extended into the locker room even after his injury. According to Raskin, Onana delivered an emotional speech to the team during the halftime break to encourage his teammates. “It is really great to have such a guy in the group,” Raskin said.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Will Amadou Onana return to the pitch during the tournament?
- No. The ACL tear has officially ended his participation in the current World Cup.
- Is Onana leaving the team camp?
- Not immediately. It has been decided that he will remain with the selection until at least the end of the quarter-final round.
- Who confirmed the medical diagnosis?
- The official Belgian selection released a statement confirming the tear following medical examinations.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Belgian national team’s progress and recovery news. Have thoughts on the team’s performance? Share your comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest sports updates.
