Belgium face Iran in a World Cup clash that marks the first meeting between these sides. Both sides sit on one point in Group G after opening draws, so this second-round fixture carries real weight for early qualification momentum. Belgium drew 1-1 with Egypt on June 15 while Iran shared a 2-2 result with New Zealand around the same time.
Recent results show Belgium in decent shape overall. They followed that Egypt stalemate with a 5-0 friendly win over Tunisia on June 6 and a 2-0 victory against Croatia three days earlier. Iran picked up a 2-0 friendly win against Mali on June 4 but also endured a 0-0 draw with Gambia late in May. The Red Devils look sharper in attack on paper.
Zeno Debast misses out for Belgium through injury. Iran travel without Sardar Azmoun, who was left out of the squad. Those absences thin the options slightly but neither side reports widespread problems otherwise.
Kevin De Bruyne remains the creative heartbeat for Belgium, supported by the likes of Romelu Lukaku, Leandro Trossard and Jérémy Doku. Iran rely heavily on Mehdi Taremi as their focal point up front, with support from players such as Mohammad Mohebi. A predicted 4-2-3-1 for Belgium lines up Courtois in goal behind a midfield featuring Onana or Tielemans, while Iran are expected to go with a 4-3-3 anchored by Beiranvand.
Belgium should control possession and create the better chances here. Their friendly results suggest more firepower, and a win would put them in a strong position within the balanced group. Iran will stay compact and look to hit on the break through Taremi, yet they face a tougher test than their opening fixture.
Recommended Bets
Belgium win @1.85 — stronger recent results including multiple wins in friendlies point to an edge over Iran
Over 2.5 goals @2.10 — Belgium's attacking options and Iran's open draw in their last match suggest a game with chances at both ends
Belgium -1 Asian handicap @2.00 — De Bruyne and supporting forwards should create enough quality to cover the margin against a side missing Azmoun
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
