Belgium – The Red Devils

World Cup Appearances: 1930, 1934, 1938, 1954, 1970, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026

Highest Finish: Third place in 2018

For more than a decade, Belgium had one of the most talented squads in world football. The nation’s so-called “Golden Generation” transformed Belgium from an outsider into a perennial contender on the global stage.

Between 2014 and 2022, Belgium consistently ranked as the world’s best teams, however, they always fell short at major tournaments, only placing third at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the highest achievement in Belgian football history. Despite their remarkable talent and sustained success, a major trophy remained out of reach.

Their story reflects one of football’s enduring realities: success is not measured by talent, but by silverware. Belgium’s Golden Generation captivated fans with skill, creativity, and ambition, earning a place among the finest national teams never to win a major championship.