World Cup Group G Matchday 3 Preview: Belgium to Beat New Zealand and Advance, Egypt Unfazed by Iran

At 11:00 AM Beijing time on June 27, two matches in Group G of the 2026 World Cup kicked off simultaneously: New Zealand vs Belgium, and Egypt vs Iran.

After two rounds of group play, Egypt tops the group with 4 points. Iran and Belgium each have 2 points, with Iran in second place due to a superior goal difference. New Zealand is last with 1 point, but still has a chance to advance.

New Zealand vs Belgium, New Zealand is ranked 84th in the world, with a squad value of €34.3 million, an average age of 27.6, and only one player from the top five leagues. Belgium is ranked 10th, with a squad value of €548 million, an average age of 27.1, and 20 players from the top five leagues.

In this match, both teams must win to secure advancement. Belgium is far stronger than New Zealand in terms of squad quality, but they are in the twilight of their golden generation, with older core players who need to manage their stamina. New Zealand's attack depends entirely on Wood as a focal point; if Belgium can limit his touches and win the second balls from aerial duels, they can neutralize New Zealand's offense. Doku has rejoined the squad, greatly boosting Belgium's wing breakthrough ability, along with Trossard's finishing. Belgium should dominate the game and set up a siege, and the tall New Zealand players will find it difficult to keep the ball, leading to high energy expenditure.

In summary, Belgium is favored to beat New Zealand and advance.

The two teams have never faced each other.

Injury and suspension situation: New Zealand(None); Belgium hasN'Goy (suspended due to red card), defender Debast.

Egypt vs Iran: Egypt is ranked 26th in the world, with a squad value of €116 million, an average age of 28.7, and four players from the top five leagues. Iran is ranked 21st, with a squad value of €32.05 million, an average age of 29.8, and four players based in Europe.

Egypt, currently top with 4 points, is almost certain to advance. They can adopt a counter-attacking strategy, leveraging the agility of forwards Marmoush and Salah. Iran, with 2 points, must win to qualify, but aside from set pieces, their ability to break down a defense is not strong. If Iran goes all-out attack, Egypt will have ample space for counters. Salah is in great form, capable of passing and shooting, making him Egypt's biggest threat. Iranian players are strong in physical duels but lack midfield creativity, while Egypt's players are quick, skillful, and have star power in their ranks. Iran's offensive approach may be risky, and Manchester City forward Marmoush still needs to prove his worth.

In summary, Egypt is expected to remain undefeated in this match!

The two teams have never faced each other.

Injury and suspension situation: Egypt hasHamdy Fathy, Maged; Iran(None).

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