2026 FIFA World Cup Group G Clash: Belgium are the top favorites, while Egypt and Iran are fully prepared to upset the odds and shake up the group.

2026 World Cup Group G is poised to become one of the most competitive groups in the group stage. While Belgium holds status as the top seed, progression to the knockout phase will be far from straightforward, as Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand all carry the capability to pull off surprise results.

With the tournament's new 48-team format, Qualification Chances for the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup have become far more open. This dynamic means competition within Group G is forecast to remain fiercely contested right through the final matchday fixtures.

Belgium: The Group Favourite

Belgium brings long-standing elite international experience, with their best World Cup achievement coming as third place finishers in the 2018 edition.

Rudi Garcia's squad secured their finals berth after topping European Qualifiers Group J, registering five wins and three Draws across eight matches. With a balanced blend of veteran leaders and emerging young talent, the Red Devils remain one of the most respected sides in the tournament.

Kevin De Bruyne stands as the most influential figure in Belgium's line-up. This veteran midfielder operates as the team's tactical and creative heartbeat, thanks to his elite game vision, inventiveness on the ball, and proven international tournament experience.

Even with these strengths, Belgium cannot afford any complacency.

Egypt Rely On Mohamed Salah

Belgium's greatest challenge in the group may come from Egypt. The Pharaohs confirmed their 2026 World Cup ticket after finishing top of African Zone Group A, with eight wins and two draws from ten qualifying matches.

Egypt will be heavily dependent on Mohamed Salah. The former Liverpool forward is widely expected to pursue a landmark legacy at this tournament, as the 2026 World Cup is set to be his final appearance for the national side.

Under head coach Hossam Hassan, Egypt fields a squad built on a mix of domestic league players and professionals competing across top European competitions.

Iran's Clear Tournament Ambitions

Alongside Egypt, Iran also arrive at the finals with clear competitive goals. Team Melli qualified for the tournament once again after claiming first place in Group A during the final round of Asian qualifiers.

Iran have never advanced beyond the group stage in their World Cup history. That said, this current squad boasts a solid core structure and consistent experience competing at elite international tournaments.

Mehdi Taremi is the central figure for Iran. The Olympiacos striker sits as the second highest all-time goalscorer for the Iranian national team, with 60 goals from 105 senior caps.

Managed by Amir Ghalenoei, Iran combine European-based players including Taremi and Alireza Jahanbakhsh with the top performing talent from their domestic league system.

New Zealand Should Not Be Written Off

Meanwhile, New Zealand enter the group as the side with the lowest FIFA Ranking in Group G. Despite this, the All Whites cannot be dismissed lightly.

New Zealand's core strength is built around Chris Wood. The Nottingham Forest striker holds both the all-time most appearances and all-time top goalscorer records for the New Zealand national side.

Coached by Darren Bazeley, New Zealand will rely on disciplined tactical organisation and collective team spirit to compete against opponents placed higher in the world rankings.