World Cup 2026: Belgium vs Egypt – Preview, Pharaohs face major test against Red Devils

The spotlight shifts to Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday as Belgium and Egypt lock horns in a highly anticipated opening-round encounter.

Both nations arrive with ambitions of reaching the knockout stages, making this fixture a crucial early battle in a group that also includes Iran and New Zealand. While Belgium are regarded as favourites to top the section, Egypt believe they possess enough quality and experience to challenge the European giants and potentially pull off a surprise.

Match Details

The Group G encounter between Belgium and Egypt will take place on Monday, June 15.

Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM.

Group G outlook

Belgium and Egypt enter the tournament knowing that a positive result could prove decisive in the race for qualification.

A victory would immediately place the winner in a commanding position ahead of the second round of group matches, while defeat would significantly increase pressure heading into subsequent games against Iran and New Zealand.

For Egypt, avoiding defeat against the group’s strongest side would be considered a major step towards reaching the knockout rounds.

Team News

Belgium

Belgium remain one of Europe’s most talented squads despite undergoing a gradual transition from their famous “golden generation.”

Coach Rudi Garcia has retained a strong core of experienced internationals while integrating younger talent capable of making an impact on the biggest stage.

The Red Devils will look to leaders such as Kevin De Bruyne to dictate play from midfield, while the attacking burden is expected to be shared by a dynamic frontline featuring pace, creativity and technical quality.

Belgium’s strength lies in their ability to dominate possession and create chances through intricate passing combinations, making them one of the most dangerous attacking teams in the competition.

Egypt

Egypt arrive with renewed confidence and belief after an impressive qualification campaign.

The Pharaohs’ hopes will once again rest heavily on the shoulders of captain Mohamed Salah, who enters the tournament as one of Africa’s biggest stars and most accomplished players.

Alongside Salah, Egypt possess additional attacking firepower through Omar Marmoush, whose pace and direct running could trouble Belgium’s defence.

Defensively, Egypt will rely on experienced centre-back Yasser Ibrahim to organise the backline and contain Belgium’s dangerous attack.

Key battle: Kevin De Bruyne vs Egypt’s midfield

One of the most fascinating duels will take place in midfield.

De Bruyne’s vision, passing range and creativity remain among the best in world football. If Egypt allow him time and space, Belgium could dominate proceedings and create numerous scoring opportunities.

Egypt’s midfielders must remain compact, disciplined and aggressive in pressing the Belgian playmaker if they are to disrupt the Red Devils’ rhythm.

Key Battle: Mohamed Salah vs Belgium’s defence

Whenever Egypt attack, attention will naturally turn to Mohamed Salah.

The Liverpool legend possesses the pace, movement and finishing ability to punish even the slightest defensive mistake. Belgium’s defenders will need to remain alert throughout the contest, particularly during transitions and counter-attacks where Salah is most dangerous.

Belgium are expected to control possession and push numbers forward in search of an early breakthrough.

Egypt, meanwhile, may adopt a more cautious approach, sitting deeper and looking to exploit spaces left behind by Belgium’s advancing full-backs.

The Pharaohs have shown throughout recent years that they can be difficult to break down when organised defensively, while their speed on the counterattack makes them a constant threat.

If Belgium fail to convert early chances, Egypt could grow into the contest and become increasingly dangerous as the match progresses.

Key Facts

This is the opening World Cup match for both teams in Group G.

Belgium are among the highest-ranked teams participating in the tournament.

Egypt are appearing in another World Cup campaign with ambitions of reaching the knockout stage for the first time.

Mohamed Salah and Kevin De Bruyne are among the biggest stars on display in the fixture.

Iran and New Zealand complete Group G alongside Belgium and Egypt.

The result could have a major influence on which teams progress to the Round of 32.

Players to Watch

Belgium

Kevin De Bruyne

Jeremy Doku

Lois Openda

Egypt

Mohamed Salah

Omar Marmoush

Yasser Ibrahim

Prediction

On paper, Belgium possess greater squad depth and experience at the highest level, but Egypt have enough quality to make life difficult for the Europeans.

If Salah and Marmoush can capitalise on counterattacking opportunities, the Pharaohs could spring a surprise. However, Belgium’s superior midfield control and attacking options may ultimately prove decisive.

Prediction: Belgium 2-1 Egypt.