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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

Belgium vs Egypt – A key clash that could decide the group winner.
Egypt vs Iran – A crucial match in the battle for second place.
Belgium vs Iran – A tactical contest between attack and defensive discipline.
New Zealand vs Iran – A match where the underdog could surprise.

Predicted Standings

1.
Belgium
Group Winner
2.
Egypt
Qualified
3.
Iran
Eliminated
4.
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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