Belgium eye progress: Iran chase an upset

In 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G, Belgium and Iran meet on Sunday at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. Looking to take a giant step towards the knockout stage, Belgium must be careful not to fall victim to an upset.

The Red Devils disappointed in their Group G opener, drawing 1-1 with Egypt thanks to a second-half own goal, though the point secured could prove vital to progression. With four points almost certain to seal a last-32 berth this summer, a win on Sunday would be wildly celebrated by Belgium. Iran, meanwhile, had a breathless 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their first outing, putting Team Melli in a promising position. Despite the tension with the United States that has overshadowed Iran's participation, beating the Europeans would all but guarantee passage.

Sunday is the first-ever meeting between the two nations, with Belgium favoured. But both an underwhelming start to 2026 and a shock display four years ago in Qatar mean the Red Devils cannot be trusted to avoid this potential banana skin easily.

According to SI.com, the last remnants of Belgium's golden generation have one final shot this summer, but the performance against Egypt must be vastly improved. Rudi Garcia's squad blends legends like Kevin De Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois and Romelu Lukaku with rising talents. Experience matters, but Belgium need their up-and-comers to make their mark too. Fortunately, Sunday's game is a mismatch in quality and FIFA ranking; having scored 20 goals in their five final pre-tournament matches, Belgium's attack needs to flex its muscles. Iran, not renowned defensively, will struggle to contain Belgium's firepower.

For Belgium, Zeno Debast was the only injury concern, before reports suggested star winger Jérémy Doku could miss out with a respiratory issue; Lille's Matias Fernandez-Pardo could come in. Although Romelu Lukaku made a big impact off the bench last time, his lack of match fitness means Charles De Ketelaere should start at striker. For Iran, it remains to be seen whether Amir Ghalenoei sticks with the 4-4-2 used against New Zealand or opts for a more defensive system. A clinical display from Olympiacos striker Mehdi Taremi will be required.

SI.com predict 3-1 to Belgium.

Predicted XIs
Belgium (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Meunier, Ngoy, Mechele, Castagne; Onana, Tielemans; Trossard, De Bruyne, Fernandez-Pardo; De Ketelaere
Iran (4-4-2): Beiranvand; Rezaeian, Khalilzadeh, Nemati, Mohammadi; Mohebi, Ghoddos, Ezatolahi, Ghayedi; Moghanlou, Taremi

Source: Sports Illustrated
Image: Sports Illustrated