Belgium's problem
Before the 2026 World Cup , Belgium was considered the strongest team in Group G thanks to a host of stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, Jeremy Doku, and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. However, the 1-1 draw against Egypt sounded an alarm for the "Red Devils". Belgium dominated possession but lacked sharpness in finishing. Their passing combinations were not as effective as expected, while their defense still showed worrying weaknesses. Reuters reported that Belgian experts are expecting a more aggressive performance from their team against Iran (2 AM on June 22nd, live on VTV6) if they want to avoid a repeat of their 2022 World Cup defeat (eliminated in the group stage).
Salah's Egypt (10) need to beat the weaker opponent to compete for a place in the next round.
PHOTO: AFP
On the other side, Iran showed they are no longer just a defensive team at the World Cup. Facing New Zealand, the Asian representatives were twice trailing but still managed to fight back and secure a point. Captain Mehdi Taremi continued to be the driving force for the West Asian team, demonstrating his ability to hold up the ball, link up play, draw attention, and create breakthroughs in the penalty area.
In terms of overall strength, Belgium is still considered the stronger team due to its squad quality and top-level experience. However, Iran has repeatedly proven to be one of the most formidable Asian teams in recent World Cups. If Taremi and his teammates maintain their sharp counter-attacking ability, the "Red Devils" could very well have a tough night at the SoFi Stadium.
Waiting for Salah to score.
While Belgium disappointed against Egypt, New Zealand produced the most pleasant surprise in Group G. The Oceania representatives twice took the lead against Iran and only lost the victory in the final minutes. Coach Darren Bazeley even called it one of New Zealand's best performances under his tenure. However, New Zealand's next challenge will be much more difficult as their opponent is Egypt (8 AM on June 22nd, live on VTV6) featuring Mohamed Salah. The North African team played with great discipline against Belgium and showed they are capable of competing for a place in the next round. According to ESPN, Salah is likely to continue partnering with Omar Marmoush in attack in Egypt's counter-attacking formation. In the match against Belgium, the former Liverpool star left his mark with an assist and he will certainly be determined to score, especially since New Zealand is not as strong as their European opponents.
On the other side of the pitch, New Zealand still places its faith in captain Chris Wood (2 assists) along with the duo Elijah Just (2 goals) and Ben Old after their impressive opening match performances. However, Egypt's experience in big matches could be the differentiating factor. Having previously beaten New Zealand 1-0 in their last encounter in 2024, Egypt has reason to be confident in aiming for their first three points at the 2026 World Cup.
The second round of Group G therefore promises to be very tense. Belgium and Egypt enter the match with the same goal: to secure their first victory to affirm their status as top contenders and avoid being in a difficult position before the decisive round. Meanwhile, Iran and New Zealand are also determined to show that they are not teams to be easily intimidated.
Source: https://thanhnien.vn/thach-thuc-moi-cho-2-ong-lon-bang-g-185260620230949038.htm
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