Group G

Group G pairs the twilight of Europe’s most talented generation (Belgium) against legendary African striker Mohamed Salah’s last dance (Egypt), a geopolitically embattled Asian powerhouse operating under extraordinary off-field circumstances (Iran), and New Zealand — the lowest-ranked team in the 48-nation field — returning to the World Cup for the first time in 16 years. Belgium under Rudi Garcia possess Kevin De Bruyne at 34 and Romelu Lukaku at 33, and must navigate the challenge of peak timing against opponents capable of causing upsets.

Egypt’s Hossam Hassan has returned the nation to the World Cup for the first time since 1990. Mohamed Salah’s fitness from injury is the decisive variable — at full health, he remains one of the world’s most complete attackers; if compromised, Egypt’s ceiling drops dramatically. Crucially, Egypt hold a historical psychological edge over Belgium, having defeated them twice (4-0 in 2005, 2-1 in 2022). Iran under Amir Ghalenoei present a disciplined 4-2-3-1 that makes them extremely difficult to break down, though six previous World Cup appearances without advancing from the group stage weighs against them.

New Zealand under Darren Bazeley arrive as World Cup debutants in this format, with their counter-attacking structure designed to maximize physical intensity and Chris Wood’s aerial dominance. Their best realistic outcome is a repeat of their famous 2010 performance — unbeaten across three draws. Games at Lumen Field (Seattle) and BC Place (Vancouver) provide travel-friendly options for their traveling supporters.