Red Lions eliminated from hockey World Cup after draw with Spain in Wavre

Belgium’s Red Lions failed to advance to the hockey World Cup semifinals after a 1-1 draw with Spain on Sunday in Wavre, extending their streak of falling short in major tournaments.

The match began with Belgium dominating early, as Arthur Van Doren scored from a penalty corner in the fourth minute, capitalizing on a variant play where the stopper took the shot. Spain equalized in the final quarter when Marc Miralles converted a penalty corner past goalkeeper Vincent Vanasch, the seventh such opportunity conceded by Belgium. Despite controlling much of the game, Belgium could not secure a second goal, with Tom Boon’s earlier strike disallowed for a backstick and a later shot hitting the post.

The draw left Belgium with one point in Group F, finishing fourth and eliminating them from semifinal contention. Spain, with three points, advanced alongside group winner Germany. Belgium will now compete for fifth place, mirroring their outcomes at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the 2025 Euro in Mönchengladbach.

Forward Victor Wegnez acknowledged the team’s offensive struggles, stating, “The success, you have to provoke it.” He noted Belgium’s overreliance on Boon, adding, “When Tom is having a bad day, no one takes over.” Defender Maxime Van Oost said, “When it repeats, it’s because certain things were really not good enough.”

Coach Shane McLeod, who returned to lead the team after a period as assistant, described the tournament as a paradox of strong performances but disappointing results. “We develop in the tournament,” he said. “I feel we’re missing small details to tip a score.” He emphasized the need for attackers to adapt, citing the challenges of international play where defenders closely study opponents’ styles.

The match drew a sold-out crowd in Wavre, with Vanasch making several key saves, including a direct sleep shot and a close-range attempt from Spain’s Lacalle. Belgium’s midfield, led by Guillaume Hellin, created multiple chances, but the team’s finishing proved decisive in the outcome .