Eden Hazard hails Marcus Rashford’s World Cup impact after Belgium’s heartbreak

Eden Hazard has publicly praised Marcus Rashford after the Manchester United forward’s standout display at the World Cup left Belgium’s tournament hopes in tatters.

Belgium crashed out of the World Cup with a 2-0 quarter-final defeat to England on 11 December 2025, but Hazard singled out Rashford’s performance for special mention in his post-match reaction.

What did Eden Hazard say?

Hazard, now a pundit for MSN, called Rashford’s World Cup showing “impressive” despite the heavy loss. “Marcus played well,” Hazard told reporters. “He caused us problems all game. That’s what you expect from a top player.”

The praise comes as Belgium’s golden generation faces fresh scrutiny after another tournament exit without silverware. Hazard, who retired in 2023 after a decorated club career with Chelsea and Real Madrid, remains a vocal observer of the national team’s struggles.

Why it matters for Eden Hazard

For Hazard, the moment is another chance to reflect on Belgium’s decline since their 2018 World Cup bronze and Euro 2020 quarter-final runs. His comments on Rashford-himself a 2022 World Cup semi-finalist-highlight the generational shift in European football.

Hazard’s remarks also underscore his ongoing role as a bridge between Belgium’s past and present. Though retired, he still commands attention when he weighs in on key fixtures, especially those involving English clubs.

What comes next for Belgium?

Belgium’s next major tournament is the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The draw looms in late 2025, with Belgium needing to regroup after another underwhelming campaign.

Manager Domenico Tedesco faces pressure to rebuild a squad that once featured Hazard, Kevin De Bruyne, and Romelu Lukaku. Hazard’s latest comments add to the chorus calling for fresh ideas ahead of the 2026 cycle.

Hazard’s legacy and current focus

Now 35, Hazard has stepped back from playing but stays engaged through punditry and charity work. His Chelsea legend status remains untouched despite Belgium’s trophy drought since 2018.

He also keeps close ties with the Premier League, where he spent seven seasons at Chelsea. His praise for Rashford reflects both respect for current talent and nostalgia for an era when he was the continent’s most feared attacker.

Rashford, 28, scored twice in England’s quarter-final win and finished the tournament with three goals. Hazard’s nod to his form signals respect across rival nations-a rare moment of unity in modern football.