Belgium headline World Cup Group G amid unprecedented Iran conflict
Belgium are heavy favourites to win World Cup 2026 Group G, but the draw is overshadowed by Iran competing while at war with co-hosts the United States.
The European powerhouse are expected to comfortably overcome a pool containing Egypt, New Zealand and the Asian nation.
However, the unprecedented geopolitical situation surrounding the tournament has drawn intense global focus to the early fixtures.
In a first for the 96-year history of the competition, a participating country is actively engaged in a military conflict with one of the host nations.
Strict travel limits for Iranian squad
The war between Tehran and Washington began in late February and has continued despite numerous international peace proposals.
Consequently, the Iranian delegation has been forced to establish their tournament base camp in neighbouring Mexico.
Players and staff are only receiving strict matchday visas to enter the United States for their two fixtures in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.
Potential knockout clash looms
The complex logistics dictate that the squad will fly into American territory, play their scheduled fixture, and immediately depart.
A secondary storyline could see an astonishing round-of-32 showdown in Dallas on 3 July if both conflicting nations finish second in their respective groups.
Meanwhile, the final group stage match between Egypt and Team Melli is scheduled to coincide with Seattle Pride weekend.
Golden Generation seeks final glory
On the pitch, the Red Devils are attempting to navigate a transitional phase after failing to reach the final of a major tournament during their peak years.
Veterans from their 2018 semi-final run remain, including elite Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and midfield maestro Kevin de Bruyne.
Manager Domenico Tedesco has also selected Romelu Lukaku, even though the striker endured an injury-ravaged campaign at Napoli and barely featured all season.
They will rely heavily on the dynamic Premier League wing pairing of Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard to dismantle New Zealand, who enter the competition as the lowest-ranked team.
