Belgium vs Egypt: World Cup 2026 preview and lineups

SEATTLE: Belgium begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G campaign against Egypt here at Lumen Field on Monday, with both sides eager to start their tournament with a victory.

Despite their rich footballing histories, this will be the first-ever World Cup meeting between Belgium and Egypt.

The two nations have previously faced each other four times, all in international friendlies.

Egypt hold the advantage in the head-to-head record, having won three of those encounters. Belgium's only victory came in a friendly in 2018, when they recorded an impressive 3-0 win.

With crucial points on offer in the opening group-stage fixture, both teams will be determined to make a positive start and gain early momentum in Group G.

Belgium enter the match in confident form after a dominant 5-0 victory over Tunisia in their most recent friendly on 6 June.

The Red Devils are making their 15th FIFA World Cup appearance and remain one of Europe's strongest footballing nations.

Although the country's celebrated Golden Generation is nearing its end, Belgium still possess a squad filled with quality and experience.

Their strength lies in midfield, where they are capable of controlling possession and dictating the tempo of matches.

Quick passing and intelligent movement allow them to create chances and break down opposition defences.

Egypt arrive at the tournament hoping to achieve a historic breakthrough by advancing beyond the group stage for the first time.

The Pharaohs possess one of Africa's most talented squads and will rely on their defensive organisation and counter-attacking ability. Their disciplined approach has made them a difficult side to overcome.

Belgium XI:

Thibaut Courtois, Brandon Mechele, Thomas Meunier, Timothy Castagne, Michael Ngoy, Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans, Amadou Onana, Leandro Trossard, Jérémy Doku, Charles De Ketelaere

Egypt XI:

Mostafa Shoubir, Yasser Ibrahim, Mohamed Hany, Ahmed Fatouh, Emam Ashour, Mostafa Ziko, Hamdy Fathy, Mohanad Lashin, Marawan Attia, Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush