Belgium face Egypt in their World Cup opener on Monday, and the goal is clear: to erase the memories of the disappointing exit in the group stage in Qatar four years ago.
Despite having one of the most talented teams in international football over the past decade, the Red Devils have failed time and time again on the biggest stage. A third place in 2018 remains the highlight for the golden generation.
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Now head coach Rudi Garcia comes to the championship with a cautious optimism, having led the team to a positive run of results since qualifying. Belgium topped their qualifying group with 18 points from eight games, scoring 29 goals and conceding just seven.
Egypt are back in the World Cup for only the fourth time in their history. The Pharaohs are determined to make a stronger impression than in 2018, when they lost all three group stage matches.
The qualification went relatively painlessly. Egypt went unbeaten throughout the CAF campaign and finished top of their group with 26 points.
Mohamed Salah still in focus
Mohamed Salah remains the centre of attention, although there are still concerns about his fitness following a hamstring injury towards the end of the domestic season. Omar Marmoush, Trezeguet and Zizo are expected to share the attacking burden if Salah is not at full capacity.
Interestingly, Egypt have had success against Belgium in the past. They have won three of the four meetings between the nations, including a 2-1 win in their last encounter in November 2022.
Team news for Belgium vs Egypt
Belgium is expected to field a strong line-up in the World Cup opener. Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois will start behind a defence that is likely to have Arthur Theate and Nathan Ngoy as stoppers.
Aston Villa duo Youri Tielemans and Amadou Onana are expected to form the anchor in midfield, while Kevin De Bruyne will play in a more attacking role behind striker Romelu Lukaku. Premier League wingers Leandro Trossard and Jérémy Doku are both expected to start.
Egypt’s biggest concern concerns Mohamed Salah. He is available despite ongoing rehabilitation of his hamstring problem, but the Liverpool striker is expected to start without being at full strength. Omar Marmoush, Trezeguet and Zizo should provide support in attack, while experienced goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy is captain.
Predicted starting line-ups
Belgium’s predicted XI: Courtois; Meunier, Ngoy, Theate, De Cuyper; Onana, Tielemans; Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku; Lukaku
Egypt’s Predicted XI: El Shenawy; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Fatouh; Lashin, Fathy; Salah, Trezeguet, Zizo; Marmoush
Where to watch Belgium vs Egypt
Kick-off is scheduled for 21:00 Norwegian time on Monday (12:00 local time in Seattle).
In Norway, the match will probably be shown on NRK or Viaplay, depending on the rights.
Belgium vs Egypt Facts
- Belgium failed to advance from the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, despite being among the pre-favourites.
- The Red Devils scored 29 goals and conceded just seven during World Cup qualifying.
- Belgium have won three of their last four friendlies before the championship.
- Egypt qualified undefeated from their CAF qualifying group.
- The Pharaohs are participating in only their fourth World Cup finals ever.
- Egypt have won three of their four previous meetings with Belgium.
- The last meeting between the teams ended with a 2-1 win for Egypt in November 2022.
- Mohamed Salah remains Egypt’s main attacking threat, but enters the tournament with a fresh hamstring injury.
- Belgium have kept a clean sheet in both of their last two games.
- Romelu Lukaku is Belgium’s all-time top scorer and will lead the attack.
Belgium vs. Egypt prediction predictions
Belgium have by far the best squad on paper, but major championships have often exposed their inability to translate talent into results.
Egypt is an organized and experienced team with a strong history in this particular match. At the same time, Salah’s presence always gives them a chance.
A close game awaits in Seattle, and the points are likely to be split in a result that could be important for both nations in Group G.
Tips: Belgium 1–1 Egypt
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