The 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G brings together European quality, African ambition, Asian discipline and Oceania resilience. Belgium enter the tournament as favorites to top the section, while Egypt and Iran are expected to battle for the second qualification spot. Meanwhile, New Zealand return to the global stage hoping to produce another underdog story.
Group G may not have the biggest names compared to some other World Cup sections, but stylistically it could become one of the most competitive groups in the tournament.
Belgium still carry elite attacking quality
Belgium may no longer be in the peak years of their golden generation, but the squad still possesses enough quality to dominate this group.
Kevin De Bruyne remains the creative heartbeat of the side, while Romelu Lukaku continues to offer physical presence and goals in the final third. The emergence of players like Jeremy Doku and Lois Openda has also added pace and directness to Belgium’s attack.
What makes Belgium dangerous is their ability to shift between controlled possession and fast transitions. Against deeper defensive teams, their technical quality often creates openings eventually.
The concern remains in defense. Belgium’s backline no longer carries the same authority it once had during its strongest era. Against stronger knockout opponents that could become an issue, but inside this group they still look like the most complete side.
Egypt could finally make history
Egypt arrive at the World Cup carrying real belief. This squad appears far more balanced than previous Egyptian teams that relied too heavily on individual moments.
Mohamed Salah remains the headline figure, but Omar Marmoush’s rise has given Egypt another major attacking threat. Their movement and pace on the counterattack could become decisive in tight matches.
The biggest strength of this team is defensive structure. Egypt stay compact, organized and disciplined without the ball. They rarely allow opponents easy chances and are comfortable playing under pressure for long periods.
Tournament football often rewards teams that defend well and stay patient. That approach could help Egypt edge the race for second place.
Their match against Iran may ultimately decide who reaches the knockout stage.
Iran remain difficult opponents for any side
Iran continue to be one of Asia’s most consistent international teams. They enter the tournament with experience, tactical discipline and a squad capable of frustrating stronger nations.
Mehdi Taremi remains the key attacking figure and will carry major responsibility in the final third. Iran are comfortable defending deep and waiting for opportunities through transitions and set-pieces.
The issue may come in games where they are forced to dominate possession. Compared to Belgium and Egypt, Iran sometimes lack creativity in advanced areas.
Still, their organization and physicality make them dangerous opponents. Any mistake against them can quickly become costly.
New Zealand face an uphill challenge
New Zealand deserve respect after securing qualification and returning to the World Cup stage with confidence.
Chris Wood provides experience and leadership in attack, while the squad itself plays with strong collective spirit and defensive commitment. They are capable of making games difficult, especially physically.
However, the quality gap in this group looks significant. Against Belgium, Egypt and Iran, New Zealand may struggle to consistently control matches or create enough chances.
Competing strongly would already represent an important achievement for the All Whites.
Prediction: who qualifies from Group G?
Belgium should finish top of the group due to their attacking depth and tournament experience.
The battle for second place looks extremely close, but Egypt’s defensive discipline and attacking balance could give them a slight edge over Iran.
Predicted final standings
1. Belgium
2. Egypt
3. Iran
4. New Zealand
Predicted qualifiers for the Round of 32
1. Belgium
2. Egypt
Predicted group-stage exits
Iran
New Zealand