World Cup 2026: Hazard warns Belgium against underestimating Egypt

Former Belgium captain Eden Hazard has cautioned the Red Devils against taking Egypt lightly ahead of their opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

He insists that the first game of any major tournament can often be the most challenging.

The retired Belgian star believes his country has the strongest squad in Group G, but stressed that success will depend on maintaining focus from the very beginning of the competition.

Belgium Favoured but Egypt Deserve Respect

Belgium have been drawn in Group G alongside Egypt, Iran and New Zealand in the World Cup being hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Despite backing Belgium to top the group, Hazard warned that their opening encounter against Egypt could prove more difficult than many expect.

“There is no doubt that Belgium is the best in this group, but the first match is never easy.”

His comments reflect the respect he has for the Pharaohs, who will be aiming to make a strong statement against one of Europe’s leading football nations.

Praise for Rudi Garcia

Hazard also spoke positively about Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia, who is leading a national team for the first time in his coaching career.

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid star believes Garcia possesses the experience and personality needed to guide Belgium through the challenges of a World Cup campaign.

According to Hazard, the French tactician’s straightforward approach and extensive managerial background could prove valuable as the Red Devils seek to make a deep run in the tournament.

Hazard Names World Cup Favourites

When discussing the race for the World Cup title, Hazard identified several European heavyweights as the leading contenders.

He believes France, Spain, England and Portugal have the quality and depth required to challenge for football’s biggest prize.

However, the Belgian legend also suggested that the tournament could produce an unexpected surprise, as has often been the case at previous World Cups.

Ecuador Tipped as Tournament Dark Horse

Among the teams capable of upsetting the established powers, Hazard singled out Ecuador as his dark horse for the competition.

The former winger praised the South American side’s quality and highlighted defender Willian Pacho as one of the players who could play a crucial role in their campaign.

Hazard believes Ecuador possess the organisation and talent needed to cause problems for some of the tournament favourites, particularly once the knockout rounds begin.

Fond Memories of 2018 Success

Hazard also reflected on his own World Cup experiences, particularly Belgium’s memorable campaign at the 2018 tournament in Russia.

The former captain led the Red Devils to a third-place finish, the best World Cup result in the nation’s history.

Looking back on that achievement, Hazard described the period as the peak of his football career, both physically and mentally, as Belgium established themselves among the elite teams in world football.

As the 2026 World Cup gets underway, Hazard will be watching closely to see whether the current Belgian generation can build on that success and perhaps go one step further.