2026 World Cup: Belgium kick off with clash against Mo Salah’s Egypt
Following a successful pre-tournament build-up, Belgium face their World Cup opener on Monday evening at 21:00 Belgian time. They take on Egypt, their main rivals in the battle to top the group, at the Lumen Field in Seattle.
On paper, Egypt are Belgium’s toughest opponent in their group. Iran and New Zealand are considered weaker. The last time the two nations faced each other, in a friendly four years ago, Belgium lost 2-1. Of their four previous international matches, the Belgians have won just one.
So the Red Devils will be wary of the seven-time Africa Cup of Nations winners. The country emerged from the African World Cup qualifiers unbeaten, with 26 points from 30. With Mo Salah and Omar Marmoush, there are two big names in manager Hossam Hassan’s squad.
However, following a successful pre-tournament campaign featuring two impressive victories against Croatia and Tunisia, Belgium appear fully prepared for this opening World Cup match. The Red Devils will rely primarily on their attacking strength.
Amadou Onana, captain Youri Tielemans and playmaker Kevin De Bruyne are certain to start in midfield. On the flanks are Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard, with Charles De Ketelaere up front. Romelu Lukaku is not yet ready to start the match and will begin on the bench.
Defensively, the Red Devils are in a less comfortable position. It is expected that manager Rudi Garcia will opt for a back four. At left-back, Timothy Castagne seems to be the preferred choice, while Thomas Meunier is a certainty on the right.
Nathan Ngoy is a new addition to the national squad and has made an excellent impression in recent weeks. The big question is who will partner the Lille player at centre-back. Arthur Theate and Brandon Mechele are the two main contenders. Between the posts, the Red Devils can count on goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
As well as the Egyptian team, the heat will be an opponent not to be underestimated for Belgium. It will be midday when the match kicks off in Seattle, so the team will play their first 90 World Cup minutes in 30-degree heat, under the blazing sun.
Kevin De Bruyne during a training session © BELGA PHOTO DIRK WAEM
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