World Cup Group G preview: Belgium lead the way as Egypt carry Africa’s hopes
The 2026 FIFA World Cup’s Group G features a blend of footballing cultures, with Belgium representing Europe, Iran from Asia, Egypt carrying Africa’s hopes, and New Zealand flying the flag for Oceania.
Each nation enters the tournament relying heavily on seasoned leaders. Belgium’s challenge will be driven by Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, Iran look to Mehdi Taremi, Egypt depend on Mohamed Salah, while New Zealand will count on veteran striker Chris Wood.
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Current FIFA rankings place Belgium highest among the quartet in ninth position. Iran occupy 20th place, Egypt sit 29th, while New Zealand are ranked 85th.
Belgium boast the strongest World Cup pedigree in the group, having secured a third-place finish in 2018. Meanwhile, Iran, Egypt and New Zealand are all still chasing their first appearance in the knockout rounds.
The expanded 48-team tournament format offers additional opportunities, with the top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed sides progressing. This could significantly boost the hopes of Egypt and Iran as they seek a place in the latter stages.
Belgium – Team overview
Belgium’s celebrated generation of talent that emerged more than a decade ago featured names such as Eden Hazard, Vincent Kompany, Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois. While several of those stars have retired from international football, De Bruyne, Lukaku and Courtois remain key figures in the current squad.
De Bruyne continues to be the heartbeat of Belgium’s midfield. Renowned for his vision, creativity and ability to score from distance, he has enjoyed trophy-laden spells in Germany, England and Italy. Since making his mark internationally in 2014, he has become one of Belgium’s most influential players and among the nation’s leading scorers.
Egypt
Egypt made history as Africa’s first World Cup participant when they appeared at the 1934 tournament. The upcoming competition marks the Pharaohs’ fourth appearance, and they will be determined to finally reach the knockout phase for the first time.
Salah remains the face of Egyptian football and the country’s all-time leading scorer. With this tournament potentially being his final World Cup, the Liverpool forward is eager to help Egypt register its first-ever World Cup victory.
His previous World Cup experience in 2018 was disrupted by a shoulder injury, and concerns over fitness persist after he suffered a hamstring injury in April 2026.
Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush has emerged as a vital attacking partner for Salah. The 27-year-old enjoyed a successful 2025-26 campaign, helping City capture both the FA Cup and League Cup.
On the other hand, Iran have qualified for the World Cup seven times but have yet to advance beyond the group phase. Despite that record, Team Melli have collected memorable victories over the years, defeating the United States in 1998, Morocco in 2018 and Wales in 2022. The Asian side now hopes the 2026 tournament will finally deliver a place in the knockout rounds.
Meanwhile, New Zealand are preparing for their third World Cup appearance. The All Whites are still searching for their maiden victory at the tournament after drawing all three matches in 2010 and suffering three defeats during their debut campaign in 1982.
Veteran striker Chris Wood will captain the side in North America. The Nottingham Forest frontman has been remarkably productive for his country, scoring 45 goals in 89 international appearances.
Defender Tommy Smith is one of only two members of the current squad, along with Wood, who also featured during New Zealand’s most recent World Cup appearance in South Africa in 2010. His experience is expected to play a crucial role as the Oceania representatives attempt to make history.
