Group G to the World Cup 2026 brings together a mix of European tactical ambition, Middle Eastern resilience, North African pedigree and oceanic adventure. Belgium top a group that also includes Iran, New Zealand and Egypt – a fascinating mix of styles, with all four sides coming into the tournament with something to prove. Matches in Seattle, Los Angeles and Vancouver should provide some of the most contrasting football of the early rounds.
Favorites: Belgium
Belgium enter the 2026 World Cup at a fascinating crossroads. The so-called ‘Golden Generation’ of De Bruyne, Hazard and Lukaku, which promised so much in the 2010s, never quite delivered the silverware their talent deserved. Now with a younger core mixed around the experienced backbone, the Red Devils enter this tournament with renewed energy under their manager. Belgium should top this group comfortably, although their second-round potential will largely depend on whether the new generation can step up when it matters most.
The Challengers
Egypt they are the most decorated African team in continental history, with seven CAN titles. Their qualification for 2026 was Mohamed Salah’s chance to make his mark on a World Cup, having endured a difficult campaign at Russia 2018. Manager Hossam Hassan has built a team that combines Salah’s brilliance with a more pragmatic and defensively sound framework. Pharaohs will have many chances to progress.
Iran they are perennial Asian qualifiers and bring a physically robust and tactically organized approach to tournaments. Team Melli pushed England to the limit at Qatar 2022 and have the experience of a team that knows how to navigate the group stages. They are difficult to break down, dangerous on set pieces and capable of surprising.
new zealand they are the only Oceanic representative, and the All Whites bring a refreshing underdog spirit to the tournament. With limited international pedigree, they will be the clear outsiders in the group, but their physical, direct style and well-organized defense can make them uncomfortable opponents.
Talents to watch
For Belgium, Jeremy Doku has emerged as the dynamic attacking threat of the new era. The Manchester City winger combines a quick pace with extraordinary dribbling and is capable of changing the game on his own. Romelu Lukaku remains the focal point of the offense, his physical presence and finishing instincts remain at an elite level. Charles De Ketelaere he offers creativity from the number ten role, while also being a veteran Kevin De Bruyne – if still selected – is still capable of producing moments of brilliance. Wout Faes i Zeno Debast they form the new core of the defense, and the goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois remains one of the best in the world.
of Egypt hopes, as always, rest a lot Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool legend is approaching what is likely to be his last World Cup, and the desire to make his mark on the tournament will drive him on. beside him, Omar Marmoush he has become a true star – the City forward’s pace, finishing and play give Salah the support he has long lacked. Mostafa Mohamed provides more depth of attack, while Mohamed Elneny brings experience to the midfield. porter Mohammad El Shenawy he has been a constant presence between the sticks.
For Iran, Mehdi Taremi is the star The Inter Milan striker is one of the most clinical finishers in Asia and combines physicality with technical quality. Sardar Azmoun offers an experienced role up front, while Saman Ghoddos i Alireza Jahanbakhsh bring European quality to the flanks. Defensively, Majid Hosseini anchors the back line. Iran’s tactical discipline under Amir Ghalenoei is a particular strength.
The one from New Zealand the key man is Chris Woodthe Nottingham Forest striker whose physical presence and finishing have been at career-highs in recent Premier League seasons. Marko Stamenic brings genuine midfield quality, while also being veteran Winston Reid — if selected — provides defensive leadership.
How could the group develop
The opening day features Belgium-Egypt in Seattle and Iran-New Zealand in Los Angeles. The Belgium-Egypt match could be tighter than expected, especially given Salah’s quality on the big stage. Iran should be favored against New Zealand. Round two’s match between Belgium and Iran in Los Angeles could be decisive for first place, while Egypt against New Zealand on round three could decide who finishes second.
An expected finish: Belgium first, Egypt second, Iran third and possibly progressing as one of the best third placed.
final word
Group G may not boast the brand names of some other pools, but it has compelling individual stories. Salah’s last major tournament opportunity, Doku’s coming-of-age moment, Taremi’s bid to be Asia’s most prominent striker – there’s plenty to enjoy here. Belgium should progress comfortably, but the battle for second place promises real drama, and anyone from Egypt, Iran or even New Zealand could make a name for themselves in 2026.
