Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia says his squad is finally back to full fitness ahead of Tuesday`s World Cup Round of 32 clash with Senegal, giving his side renewed confidence as the knockout stage begins.
Speaking before the match in Seattle, Garcia said all of his players are available after Belgium dealt with fitness concerns during the group stage.
He said several key players were not fully fit in the team`s opening matches, but those issues have now been resolved.
Belgium topped Group G after opening the tournament with draws against Egypt and Iran before securing a convincing 5-1 victory over New Zealand.
Garcia said finishing first in the group was an important achievement, although he admitted his team had hoped to win more matches before the knockout phase.
The Belgium coach highlighted the improved condition of Romelu Lukaku, Jeremy Doku and Charles De Ketelaere, saying all three are now ready to contribute.
Lukaku has gradually returned to action after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Doku missed one group-stage match following the birth of his son. De Ketelaere also returned after overcoming a knee problem.
Looking ahead to Senegal, Garcia said Belgium`s full-strength squad gives the team confidence but stressed that performances in the group stage no longer matter once the knockout rounds begin.
De Ketelaere also warned against complacency, pointing to Paraguay`s surprise victory over Germany as proof that favourites can quickly be eliminated.
He said Belgium`s focus must be on staying sharp and delivering their best performance to secure a place in the Round of 16.
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