Belgium vs Iran match preview: Belgians must win. 21.06.2026
On June 21, the second round of the 2026 World Cup group stage will feature a crucial Group G clash as Belgium faces Iran. For both sides, this fixture could prove pivotal in the battle for a playoff spot, with each team having picked up just one point after their opening match.
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Belgium kicked off their campaign with a draw against Egypt (1-1), failing to convert their dominance into victory. The squad remains one of Europe’s most talented, boasting plenty of high-caliber players. The main attacking threat is still Romelu Lukaku, a striker capable of changing the course of a match with a single touch. In midfield, Amadou Onana plays a key role, providing balance between defense and attack, while Jérémy Doku adds creativity up front—his pace and dribbling can trouble any backline.
Iran opened their tournament with an entertaining 2-2 draw against New Zealand, proving their attacking credentials. The team’s star man is veteran forward Mehdi Taremi, who has long been the national team’s leader and possesses a sharp eye for goal. Sardar Azmoun is pivotal in the build-up, both finishing moves and providing for his teammates. Captain Alireza Jahanbakhsh anchors the midfield with his international experience, which could be a key asset for Iran.
Tactically, this promises to be a fascinating contest. Belgium will look to dominate possession and apply pressure down the flanks, while Iran are expected to keep things compact and hit on the break. The duel between Belgium’s attacking line, spearheaded by Lukaku, and Iran’s organized defense will be one to watch.
The group standings add extra weight to this encounter. A win would all but guarantee one side a comfortable position heading into the final round, while a loss would significantly complicate their path out of the group.
Key players to watch:
- Belgium: Romelu Lukaku, Jérémy Doku, Amadou Onana, Leandro Trossard.
- Iran: Mehdi Taremi, Sardar Azmoun, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Saeid Ezatolahi.
Prediction: Belgium win.
Probable lineups:
- Belgium: Courtois, Meunier, Ngoy, Mechele, De Cuyper, Raskin, Tielemans, Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku, Lukaku.
- Iran: Beiranvand, Mohammadi, Nemati, Khalilzadeh, Rezaeian, Hajsafi, Ezatolahi, Mohebi, Ghayedi, Taremi, Alipourghara.
