World Cup 2026: Group G full fixture guide, team analysis and qualification predictions

Group G at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up as one of the most balanced sections of the tournament, combining a transitioning European powerhouse, a North African side built around one of world football’s most dangerous attacking duos, a disciplined Asian qualifier with elite defensive structure, and a physical Oceanian returnee making its first appearance in 16 years.

Belgium enter as slight favourites, but Egypt’s attacking firepower, Iran’s tactical discipline and New Zealand’s physical resilience ensure that every match in this group carries genuine knockout-level tension.

Group G Fixtures, Dates and Venues

The group stage begins on Monday, June 15, with Iran facing New Zealand at Los Angeles Stadium, while Belgium take on Egypt at Seattle Stadium.

Matchday two takes place on Sunday, June 21. Belgium meet Iran in Los Angeles, while New Zealand face Egypt in Vancouver.

The final round is scheduled for Friday, June 26. Egypt play Iran in Seattle, while New Zealand face Belgium in Vancouver.

Full Fixture List

Monday, June 15, 2026

• Iran vs New Zealand – Los Angeles Stadium
• Belgium vs Egypt – Seattle Stadium

Sunday, June 21, 2026

• Belgium vs Iran – Los Angeles Stadium
• New Zealand vs Egypt – BC Place Vancouver

Friday, June 26, 2026

• Egypt vs Iran – Seattle Stadium
• New Zealand vs Belgium – BC Place Vancouver

Belgium Enter a New Era After Golden Generation

Belgium arrive at the 2026 World Cup in transition rather than decline. The era defined by Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard has not delivered a major trophy, but a new generation is now taking shape under coach Rudi Garcia.

Jeremy Doku, Lois Openda and Charles De Ketelaere represent a faster, more direct Belgium, supported by the experience of De Bruyne, who remains the team’s creative leader in midfield. Belgium have shifted between a 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1, prioritising vertical attacks and quick transitions over long possession phases.

A recent 5-2 friendly win over the United States highlighted the attacking potential of this evolving side, even without key senior players available.

Egypt Built Around Salah and Marmoush

Egypt return to the World Cup for the first time since 2018, led by coach Hossam Hassan, who has created history by becoming both a player and coach World Cup qualifier for his country.

The Pharaohs produced a dominant qualifying campaign, finishing unbeaten and conceding just twice across ten matches. Their system is built around defensive organisation and rapid attacking transitions involving Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.

Salah remains the team’s central figure, while Marmoush adds pace, creativity and pressing intensity. Egypt’s attacking structure is simple but highly effective when both stars are in form, making them a constant threat in tight matches.

Iran Rely on Structure and Discipline

Iran arrive at their fourth consecutive World Cup as one of Asia’s most consistent performers under coach Amir Ghalenoei. Their qualifying campaign was built on defensive solidity, losing just once in 16 matches and finishing comfortably ahead of their group rivals.

However, their preparations have been overshadowed by the absence of Sardar Azmoun, who will not feature at the tournament. This places even greater responsibility on Mehdi Taremi, who remains the team’s main attacking reference point.

Iran operate through a compact 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 system, prioritising defensive organisation, controlled transitions and counterattacking efficiency. While difficult to break down, they may struggle if forced to chase games.

New Zealand Return With Physical Identity

New Zealand return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010 after a dominant qualification campaign in Oceania, winning all their matches and conceding just once.

Under coach Darren Bazeley, the All Whites rely on physical strength, defensive structure and direct attacking play centred around Chris Wood. The Nottingham Forest striker remains their primary goal threat and focal point in attack.

Recent friendly results showed both their vulnerability and potential, with inconsistency in performance but clear attacking threat when their physical game clicks.

Qualification Prediction

Belgium enter the group with the most complete squad, but their transitional phase means they are not as dominant as in previous cycles. Egypt’s attacking duo of Salah and Marmoush makes them extremely dangerous in decisive moments.

Iran’s defensive organisation ensures they will remain competitive in every match, while New Zealand’s physical style makes them a difficult opponent even for stronger sides.

The race for qualification is expected to be extremely tight, particularly between Egypt and Iran, with goal difference potentially decisive.

Predicted Final Standings

1. Belgium
2. Egypt
3. Iran
4. New Zealand

Dark Horse

Iran