Belgium vs Iran Preview: Red Devils Target First World Cup 2026 Victory

Belgium will be looking to register their first win of the FIFA World Cup 2026 when they take on Iran in a crucial Group F clash on Sunday.

The Red Devils endured a disappointing start to their campaign, being held to a 1-1 draw by Egypt in their opening fixture. Rudi Garcia's men struggled to find their rhythm and needed a second-half intervention from veteran striker Romelu Lukaku to rescue a point after falling behind to a stunning effort from Emam Ashour.

Although Belgium remain one of Europe's most talented squads, recent major tournaments have highlighted a worrying decline. After a shock group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup and a disappointing Round of 16 elimination at Euro 2024, expectations are high for Garcia's side to deliver a stronger showing this summer.

Despite their underwhelming opener, Belgium remain favorites to progress from Group F. Ranked ninth in the FIFA World Rankings, they topped their qualifying group with 18 points from eight matches, scoring 29 goals while conceding only seven.

With matches against Iran and New Zealand still to come, Belgium know that a victory on Sunday would place them firmly in control of their qualification hopes.

Iran, meanwhile, opened their tournament with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against New Zealand. Amir Ghalenoei's side twice came from behind thanks to goals from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mahebi, showing resilience and determination to earn a valuable point.

The build-up to Iran's World Cup participation was overshadowed by logistical and political challenges, but the team has remained focused on football. Their ability to fight back against New Zealand demonstrated the character within the squad, although Belgium will represent a much tougher test.

Historically, Iran have struggled at the World Cup, never progressing beyond the group stage despite six previous appearances. The Asian side have won just three of their 19 World Cup matches and have lost seven of their ten encounters against European opposition.

This will be the first-ever senior international meeting between Belgium and Iran, adding an extra layer of intrigue to Sunday's encounter.

Team News

Belgium could make several changes following their disappointing performance against Egypt. Romelu Lukaku made a positive impact off the bench but may still lack the fitness required to start after an injury-interrupted season.

If Lukaku is not ready, Charles De Ketelaere could continue in a false-nine role, supported by Leandro Trossard and Matias Fernandez-Pardo in attack.

Defender Zeno Debast remains unavailable due to a thigh injury, but Belgium have strong defensive options with Maxim De Cuyper and Joaquin Seys pushing for starting places.

Iran have minor injury concerns over midfielders Roozbeh Cheshmi and Saman Ghoddos. The latter was forced off against New Zealand with an ankle problem and faces a late fitness test.

Veteran defender Ramin Rezaeian continues to impress despite being 36 years old and is expected to start at right-back after becoming the oldest player to score and assist in a World Cup match.

Captain Mehdi Taremi remains Iran's main attacking threat. The experienced striker has scored 60 goals for his country and will be hoping to add to that tally against Belgium.

Match Prediction

Belgium possess significantly more quality throughout their squad and should improve after their disappointing draw against Egypt. Iran are organized and capable of causing problems on the counterattack, but the Red Devils' attacking talent could ultimately prove decisive.

Prediction: Belgium 2-1 Iran