Analyzing World Cup Group G: From Salah's Egypt to a New-Look Belgium
Who will emerge from Group G? This preview covers everything you need to know about Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand, highlighting the star players and predicting the final standings.
Video Transcript
Previewing every single World Cup group ahead of the tournament this summer, Group G. Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand make up this one.
Belgium's golden generation is done, and ultimately never reached its potential.
The squad list is a shadow of the names that we saw back in 2018, and even 2022, although there is still a sprinkling of attacking star power.
This is a new era for the Belgians, and perhaps the weight of expectation being lifted will empower them to new heights.
Given Egypt's unrivaled pedigree in Africa, it is surprising that they have never even won a World Cup match.
This year represents a great opportunity.
Mo Salah needs no introduction, but the dual threat with Omar Marmoush on the opposing flank means they have a more balanced attacking threat.
Iran are another team still somewhat reliant on the old guard.
They play stodgy football with an aging team, but it would be remiss of us to ignore the glaring geopolitical issues facing the team.
Their home country is currently at war with one of the co-hosts, and their preparation has been shrouded in doubt when it comes to venues, playing squad, and the fans.
Sometimes football comes second.
For some reason, the fact that New Zealand were the only unbeaten team at the World Cup in 2010 is a fact that is ingrained in my brain.
This is their first World Cup since then, and fair play to them.
Despite being one of the lowest-ranked teams, they do try and play expansive football.
Chris Wood being fit and firing just in time for the tournament is a massive, massive boost.
One player to watch from each team, Jeremy Doku of Belgium, Mo Salah of Egypt, Karim Ansarifard of Iran, and rather obviously, Chris Wood of New Zealand.
