Belgium vs Iran | FIFA World Cup 2026- Group Stage | Preview and Predictions

In what is shaping up to be a tightly-contested and even-keeled Group G, Belgium and Iran face each other in a very pivotal fixture with massive ramifications in terms of qualifying for the knockout stages of the tournament.

Here is our Preview and Predictions for the game.

FIFA WC26 | Group G: BEL vs IRN | 00:30 IST, 22 June, 2026

Belgium opened their campaign with what was a testy and physical 1-1 against Egypt which was marked by a slew of yellow cards throughout the contest. 

But the physicality of the contest aside, it felt like the Red Devils were a step back from their opponents. Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard looked limited and ineffective from the flanks, with Trossard in particular looking lost and more often than not picking up the wrong option, breaking down the move in the process.

The game eventually changed when head coach Rudi Garcia called upon Romelu Lukaku from the bench, and his impact was almost instantaneous as he came on and made a telling contribution in the equalising goal which led to both sides sharing the spoils.

Iran, meanwhile, played out what was an entertaining 2-2 draw against New Zealand, which is an achievement in itself given that they arguably were the team with the biggest spotlight due to factors not even in their control.

Iran made a fast start but fell behind twice only to storm back and get on level terms quickly enough. While Mehdi Taremi was unlucky to not get on the scoresheet, he will definitely look to influence the game this time around and make a winning contribution to his side.

Both sides know the importance of a win in a seemingly open group and how massive that is in their quest for a spot in the knockout stages. However, despite all of Iran’s impetus, we believe that Belgium has enough attacking depth and quality to start as favourites and eventually win the match.

Score Predictions: Belgium 3-1 Iran

Venue: Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood.