2026 FIFA World Cup Group G preview, betting odds, prediction
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here, and Group G begins play on June 15 with a group that feels much tighter than many people expect. Belgium enters as the clear favourite, but Egypt and Iran are both experienced international sides capable of grinding out results. Meanwhile, New Zealand returns to the World Cup hoping to take advantage of the expanded 48-team format.
With more teams advancing to the knockout stage than ever before, every point matters. This group may not have the biggest stars in the tournament, but it should produce tense and physical matches from start to finish. Here is my 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G prediction.
Make sure to check out Sports Interaction’s complete list of World Cup game odds and World Cup futures.
2026 FIFA World Cup Group G odds
Here’s how the oddsmakers have priced each team to win Group G:
- Belgium (-230)
- Egypt (+400)
- Iran (+450)
- New Zealand (+2500)
Additionally, you can bet on which teams will qualify based on the odds below:
- Belgium (-3500)
- Egypt (-340)
- Iran (-200)
- New Zealand (+150)
Belgium is expected to move through comfortably, but the race for second place is wide open. Egypt and Iran are separated by very little, while New Zealand enters as the long shot despite the expanded tournament creating more opportunities for underdogs.
Belgium preview and analysis
Belgium no longer has the same golden generation that nearly reached the 2018 World Cup final, but this squad still carries plenty of talent and experience. Rudi Garcia has blended younger attackers with veteran leadership, and Belgium enters the tournament unbeaten in 11 straight matches across all competitions.
Jeremy Doku is now the biggest attacking threat, while Leandro Trossard adds creativity in the final third. Romelu Lukaku also returns to the squad after spending over a year away from the national team. Belgium’s technical quality and midfield control should allow them to dictate most matches in this group, making them the deserved favourite to finish first.
Egypt preview and analysis
Egypt heads into this tournament with the same identity it has relied on for years: defensive organization and discipline. They rarely open matches up unnecessarily and are comfortable sitting deep before looking to strike on the counterattack.
Mohamed Salah remains the star of the team and can still change matches instantly despite being in the later stages of his career. Egypt’s biggest concern is whether enough attacking support will emerge around him, but their defensive structure alone gives them a strong chance to reach the knockout stage.
Iran preview and analysis
Iran continues to be overlooked despite consistently performing well on the international stage. Their physical and organized style makes them extremely difficult to break down, especially in tournament football, where low-scoring matches are common.
Mehdi Taremi is still the focal point in attack, though the absence of veteran striker Sardar Azmoun leaves questions about the team’s secondary scoring options. Even so, Iran’s midfield works relentlessly defensively, and this feels like the type of group where they can quietly pick up enough points to advance.
New Zealand preview and analysis
New Zealand is back at the World Cup for the first time since 2010, and simply qualifying is already a major accomplishment. Chris Wood remains the key player and will be relied upon heavily for goals and hold-up play.
The issue for New Zealand is the overall talent gap compared to the rest of the group. They will likely try to keep matches physical and defensive, but consistently creating scoring chances against this level of competition could prove difficult.
2026 FIFA World Cup Group G Prediction: Dual Forecast Any Order Belgium/Iran (+150)
Belgium should top the group, but I think Iran has a slight edge over Egypt in the battle for second place. Egypt’s defence will keep them competitive, though Iran’s overall balance gives them the higher ceiling.
Best Bet: Dual Forecast Any Order Belgium/Iran (+150)
Group Winner: Belgium (-230)