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Onana Out for Rest of World Cup with ACL Tear, Belgium Loses Key Midfielder

Amadou Onana has suffered an anterior cruciate ligament rupture sustained during Belgium's 4-1 victory over the United States in the World Cup round of 16. The Aston Villa midfielder will miss not only the remainder of the 2026 World Cup but the entire rest of the year.

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Onana Out for Rest of World Cup with ACL Tear, Belgium Loses Key Midfielder
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Amadou Onana will not play again in 2026. The Aston Villa midfielder ruptured his right knee’s anterior cruciate ligament during the World Cup round of 16 between Belgium and the United States, won 4-1 by the Red Devils.

The 24-year-old was forced to leave the field as early as the 21st minute, replaced by Hans Vanaken. Returning to the bench with a brace and crutches, his condition immediately raised concerns for manager Rudi Garcia, who mentioned after the match a “serious injury” and the “feeling that he will be ruled out”. Initial medical examinations, reported by The Athletic, confirmed the most pessimistic diagnosis.

Onana’s absence represents a considerable blow to the Belgian national team. The former Lille player was one of the central elements of Garcia’s setup, providing physical power and defensive cover in midfield.

Belgium will therefore have to do without him starting in the quarter-finals on Friday against Spain. The Spanish qualified by eliminating Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, and loom as a formidable opponent for the Red Devils now weakened in midfield.

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