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World Cup Group G Preview: Belgium, Iran, Egypt, New Zealand
Group G features a mix of experience, defensive discipline, and attacking quality. Belgium enters as the favorite with a talented squad, while Egypt and Iran are expected to compete closely for the second qualification spot. New Zealand completes the group as the underdog but has the resilience to challenge stronger teams. With balanced matchups and contrasting styles, Group G could be more competitive than it first appears.
Competition
World Cup 2026
Group
G
Favorite
Belgium
Prediction
Belgium & Iran
Team-by-Team Analysis
Belgium
Belgium enters Group G with a talented squad and plenty of attacking quality. While no longer at the peak of their “golden generation,” they still possess enough experience and technical ability to control matches.
Their attacking depth and creativity give them an edge, but consistency will be key if they want to dominate the group.
Key Players
- Kevin De Bruyne – world-class playmaker and creative leader
- Jeremy Doku – explosive winger with pace and dribbling ability
- Thibaut Courtois – elite goalkeeper with big-match experience
Outlook: Favorites to top the group
Egypt
Egypt comes into Group G with strong defensive organization and a proven attacking leader. They are disciplined, compact, and capable of frustrating stronger teams.
Their ability to stay organized and rely on individual brilliance in attack makes them a serious contender for qualification.
Key Players
- Mohamed Salah – world-class forward and main goal threat
- Omar Marmoush – dynamic attacker with pace and creativity
- Mohamed Elneny – experienced midfielder providing balance
Outlook: Strong contender for second place
Iran
Iran brings structure, discipline, and defensive strength into Group G. They are known for staying compact and making games difficult for technically stronger opponents.
With an efficient attacking setup and the ability to capitalize on limited chances, Iran can challenge for a qualification spot.
Key Players
- Mehdi Taremi – clinical striker with strong finishing ability
- Sardar Azmoun – experienced forward and key attacking outlet
- Alireza Beiranvand – reliable goalkeeper with international experience
Outlook: Tough opponent with qualification hopes
New Zealand
New Zealand enters Group G as the underdog but brings determination, physicality, and team spirit. They are well-organized and capable of staying competitive in structured matches.
While they face stronger opposition, their resilience and ability to capitalize on key moments could make them a difficult team to break down.
Key Players
- Chris Wood – captain and all-time leading scorer
- Tyler Bindon – defensive presence with strong physical attributes
- Joe Bell – midfield energy and distribution
Outlook: Underdog with upset potential
Key Matches to Watch
Predicted Standings
Belgium
Group Winner
Egypt
Qualified
Iran
Eliminated
New Zealand
Eliminated
Thoughts
Group G offers an interesting balance of attacking quality and defensive discipline. Belgium’s experience and creativity make them the favorites, but they will need consistency to secure top spot.
The battle for second place is expected to be tight between Egypt and Iran, while New Zealand remains the wildcard. With contrasting styles and competitive matchups, this group could deliver several close and unpredictable games.
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