Belgium Sacks Coach Tedesco After Euro 2024 Disappointment
Belgium’s football association (RBFA) announced the dismissal of national team coach Domenico Tedesco on Friday following underwhelming performances at Euro 2024 and the Nations League. “Unfortunately, the Red Devils did not meet expectations at Euro 2024, nor in the subsequent Nations League campaign,” the RBFA stated on its website. Appointed in February 2023 to succeed Roberto Martinez, Tedesco was tasked with rebuilding the team after the departure of Belgium’s “golden generation.” Under his leadership, the team qualified for Euro 2024 but exited in the round of 16 after losing to France. They also suffered two additional defeats to France in the Nations League, finishing third in their group and facing a relegation play-off against Ukraine in March. Expressing his pride in coaching the team, Tedesco said, “This team is still in its early development stages and has great potential for the future. I wish the players, staff, and fans all the best.” Five members of Tedesco’s coaching and support staff were also relieved of their duties. RBFA CEO Peter Willems acknowledged Tedesco’s efforts, stating, “He made an excellent start, introduced young talents, and laid a foundation for his successor to build on. We thank him and his team for their dedication.” The RBFA has not yet announced a replacement, though Frenchmen Rudi Garcia and Thierry Henry are reportedly frontrunners. Belgium will resume their journey in June, beginning their 2026 World Cup qualifiers with a trip to North Macedonia.
