Belgium vs Iran | FIFA World Cup 2026 — Group Stage | Preview and Prediction

In what is shaping up to be a tightly contested and even-keeled Group G at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Belgium and Iran face off in a very pivotal fixture with massive ramifications in terms of qualifying for the knockouts.

For the game, here we present our preview and prediction.

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

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

But the physicality of the contest aside, it felt like De Rode Duivels were a step behind their opponents. Jérémy 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 instantaneous as he equalised with his first touch, which ultimately led to both sides sharing the spoils.

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

Iran made a fast start but fell behind twice only to storm back and quickly get on level terms. While Mehdi Taremi was unlucky not to 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 here in such an open group. However, despite all of Iran’s impetus and resolve, we believe Belgium have enough attacking depth and quality to start as favourites and eventually win the match.

Score Prediction: Belgium 3–1 IR Iran
Venue: Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood, California, USA