World Cup: Rudi Garcia and De Bruyne react as ‘vital’ Lukaku inspires Belgium draw

Kevin De Bruyne admits Romelu Lukaku was ‘vital’ for Belgium in a 1-1 draw against Egypt in their World Cup debut, but Rudi Garcia insists that the Napoli striker is ‘still not ready’ to start a game.

Belgium were held to a 1-1 draw by Egypt in the World Cup opener on Monday.

Lukaku, who started on the bench, had an immediate impact when he was substituted on at minute 65, contributing to Mohamed Hany’s own goal just 28 seconds later.

“We were not at our best in the first half, but we found different ways to hurt them after the break,” Lukaku’s Napoli and Belgium teammate said at full time via FIFA.com.

“Even if it went down as an own goal, Romelu’s presence was vital. We know how dangerous he can be for our opponent’s defence. If we look at the other matches at this World Cup, though, nothing can be taken for granted, and no game is easy.”

Lukaku played only 64 minutes at club level with Napoli, mostly due to injuries, but still earned a call-up to the World Cup.

“He is not ready yet to start a game,” said Belgium coach Garcia, a former Napoli and Roma boss.

“We did not even expect to have him with us at this tournament. Sixty-four minutes over an entire season is hardly ideal preparation for a World Cup. It is fantastic to have him back, but his body still needs to adapt to the demands of competition.

“He could even have ended up with a brace with that header, but I am delighted for him, and the whole squad feels the same way. Lukaku is hugely important to us.”