Joaquin Seys Absent from Belgium Training, Charles De Ketelaere Shows Signs of Fitness Ahead of New Zealand Match
Belgian national team midfielder Joaquin Seys was notably absent from training sessions ahead of their upcoming match against New Zealand, while forward Charles De Ketelaere appears to be regaining fitness, according to multiple sources. The developments come amid ongoing scrutiny of Belgium’s performance in the 2023 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with coach Rudi Garcia facing criticism for tactical decisions and player management.
Seys, 25, who plays for Lille in Ligue 1, missed the team’s last two training sessions in Brussels, according to a statement from the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA). “Joaquin is undergoing medical evaluation for a minor muscular issue,” the RBFA said in a press release. “He is not in a position to train and will remain under observation.” The absence of Seys, a key midfielder known for his technical skills and defensive contributions, raises questions about Belgium’s midfield depth as they prepare for the match against New Zealand on October 15 in Antwerp.
Meanwhile, De Ketelaere, 24, who plays for Leicester City in the English Premier League, participated in light training on Monday, signaling a potential return to full fitness. The RBFA confirmed that the forward is “progressing well” after a hamstring strain sustained in late September. “Charles is on track to be available for the New Zealand game,” said a team spokesperson. De Ketelaere’s inclusion could provide a significant boost to Belgium’s attack, as he has scored four goals in seven qualifiers this season.
What It Means for Belgium’s World Cup Qualifiers
The absence of Seys and the potential return of De Ketelaere highlight the challenges Belgium faces in maintaining consistency during the World Cup qualifiers. The team, led by captain Kevin De Bruyne, has struggled to replicate the dominance of their 2018 World Cup campaign, where they reached the semifinals. In their last match, Belgium drew 1-1 with Iran in a high-stakes Group D encounter, a result that intensified criticism of Garcia’s tactical approach.
“The team needs to adapt quickly,” said former Belgian defender Franky Vercauteren in an interview with BBC Sport. “Seys’ absence is a blow, but De Ketelaere’s fitness is positive news. The key will be how Garcia adjusts his lineup to counter New Zealand’s style of play.”
New Zealand, ranked 123rd in the FIFA World Rankings, is expected to adopt a defensive strategy, relying on counterattacks. Belgium’s ability to control possession and create chances will be critical. The match, scheduled for 7:00 PM local time in Antwerp, will be broadcast on Fox Sports in the U.S. and BBC Sport in the UK.
Daniel Richardson is the Editor-in-Chief of Archysport, where he leads the editorial team and oversees all published content across nine sport verticals. With over 15 years in sports journalism, Daniel has reported from the FIFA World Cup, the Olympic Games, NFL Super Bowls, NBA Finals, and Grand Slam tennis tournaments. He previously served as Senior Sports Editor at Reuters and holds a Master's degree in Journalism from Columbia University. Recognized by the Sports Journalists' Association for excellence in reporting, Daniel is a member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS). His editorial philosophy centers on accuracy, depth, and fair coverage — ensuring every story published on Archysport meets the highest standards of sports journalism.
