Jun 21, Kathmandu - In the FIFA World Cup 2026, Belgium and Egypt will face off tonight in Group G. The match is scheduled to kick off at 12:30 AM local time at the Los Angeles Stadium.

Both teams, having played a thrilling 1-1 draw in their opening matches, are eager for their first victory. In their first games, Belgium and Egypt both managed to overturn early deficits to secure hard-fought draws. Belgium drew 1-1 with Iran, while Egypt held New Zealand to a 2-2 stalemate.

With all four teams in the group currently tied at 1 point each, tonight’s winner will almost secure a spot in the knockout stages. This encounter marks the first-ever competitive clash between these two nations in World Cup history.

Iran will attempt to challenge Belgium, considered relatively stronger, while Belgium aims for a straightforward win to bolster their chances of advancing. Belgium is ranked 9th in the FIFA rankings, with Iran at 22nd.

Belgium’s star striker Romelu Lukaku, who made a significant impact in the first game, is highly likely to return to the starting XI. Coach Roberto Martínez might field Lukaku from the beginning, even if he’s not fully fit for 90 minutes, to put pressure on the Iranian defense.

The 33-year-old striker, Belgium’s all-time top scorer, is known for his physical strength and clinical finishing, which could pose a serious threat to Iran’s backline. Captain Kevin De Bruyne and Yari Tillemans will lead Belgium’s attacking midfield. Winger Jeremy Doku, suffering from respiratory issues, will miss tonight’s game, a notable absence for Belgium.

For Iran, the main attacking pillar will be 33-year-old striker Mehdi Taremi, who boasts extensive European football experience. Known for his counter-attacking prowess and strong positioning inside the box, Taremi could be Iran’s key player tonight.

Iran’s veteran goal scorer Ramin Rezaeian, at 36, scored and assisted in the previous match, becoming the oldest Asian player to achieve such a feat in World Cup history. He remains a vital part of Iran’s defense and attack.