Belgium are favourites, but the group is more complex than reputation suggests. Egypt and Iran can both defend with experience, while New Zealand are physically difficult if allowed to stay in games.
Belgium are in a new-cycle test — the golden generation is fading, but there is still enough attacking quality to control Group G. The concern is midfield balance. Iran are experienced, tactically disciplined and comfortable in tense matches; their Egypt clash could decide the second automatic spot.
Egypt's ceiling depends heavily on Mohamed Salah's fitness and support structure — if the midfield gives him enough transition chances, they are strong enough to finish second. New Zealand are direct, strong in the air and comfortable defending deep, capable of making matches awkward through set pieces.
Belgium are in a new-cycle test. The golden generation is fading, but there is still enough attacking quality to control Group G. The concern is midfield balance and whether they can dominate without the old level of individual superiority. A clean opening win would settle the group quickly.
Iran are experienced, tactically disciplined and comfortable in tense matches. Operational and visa-related noise around the tournament has been a storyline, but on the pitch the team is likely to focus on structure and counters. The Egypt match could decide the second automatic spot.
Egypt's ceiling depends heavily on Mohamed Salah's fitness and support structure. If they become too one-dimensional, good teams can isolate him. If the midfield gives Salah and the forwards enough transition chances, Egypt are strong enough to finish second. Their match against Iran is the key fixture.
New Zealand are outsiders, but they will not be easy to physically dominate. They are direct, strong in the air and comfortable defending deep. Their challenge is chance creation. If they keep the first two matches close, set pieces could make them a spoiler in the group.