Belgium at the FIFA World Cup goal. Champions Runners-up Third place Fourth place Belgium at the FIFA World Cup Belgium have appeared in the finals tournament of the FIFA World Cup on 13 occasions, the first being at the first FIFA World Cup in 1930 where they finished in 11th place. The inaugural FIFA World Cup final was officiated by Belgian referee John Langenus. Traditionally, Belgium's greatest rival is the Netherlands. The two countries have met each other twice in the history of the FIFA World Cup, with one win for Belgium (USA 1994) and one tie (France 1998). The team that has played the most
National team appearances in the FIFA World Cup teams have appeared in FIFA World Cup finals without winning, while eleven more have appeared in semi-finals. As per statistical convention in football, matches decided in extra time are counted as wins and losses, while matches decided by penalty shoot-outs are counted as draws. 3 points per win, 1 point per draw and 0 points per loss. Source: The inaugural FIFA World Cup tournament in 1930 featured 13 teams. Since then, every instance of the competition has featured at least one team making their debut appearance. Except in 1934, host nations are granted an automatic spot in the World Cup