Belgium once again got off to a shaky start to a major tournament as Rudi Garcia's men could only draw 1-1 with Egypt in their World Cup opener.
The Belgians only created two big chances and won two corners during that opening World Cup game, indicating that things must improve swiftly if they are to make the knockout stages for the first time since 2018.
Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois are the last members of the fabled golden generation that finished third eight years ago. Can Belgium enjoy another deep run?
Meanwhile, Iran fought back to snatch a share of the points against New Zealand, although they would have been disappointed in not winning a game in which they were considered favourites.
Another positive result here would set the Asian side up nicely ahead of their final Group G game against Egypt.
Belgium vs. Iran betting picks and predictions
Over 2.5 goals (-125)
Iran's opening game featured four goals in what was an entertaining 2-2 draw with the All Whites.
Four of their previous five matches dating back to November 2025 have featured three or more goals being scored.
The Red Devils have also been involved in a few high-scoring matches of late.
In March, Garcia's side dismantled co-hosts USA 5-2 in a friendly match, before scoring two goals against Croatia and then netting five in their final warm-up game against Tunisia.
With both teams eager to seal three points ahead of their final matches in Group G, this tie could feature plenty of goals.
Jeremy Doku to be fouled 3+ times (-125)
Jeremy Doku failed to score or assist against Egypt, but there is no doubting how much of a menace he was to right-back Mohamed Hany during the match.
Indeed, the lively winger attempted nine dribbles during his time on the pitch, succeeding with three of them.
Furthermore, he was fouled five times in total, with the Egyptian defence having to result to that tactic in order to prevent him from getting a shot away or delivering a cross into the box.
He will almost certainly be as exciting here, although Iran right-back, Ramin Rezaeian, enjoyed an excellent game against New Zealand, scoring and assisting once during the draw.
Rezaeian won 100% of his ground duels and made three tackles, but he will find things a lot tougher against Doku this time around.
Belgium to win and both teams to score (+250)
I fully expect Belgium to put the draw with Egypt behind them and go all out to secure victory against Iran in matchday two.
With perhaps their easiest match to come against New Zealand next week, a win over Amir Ghalenoei's side would put them in an excellent position to finish as group winners and perhaps secure an easier draw in the knockout stages.
Of course, that means several players must perform better than they did against the Egyptians. Romelu Lukaku wasn't fit to start the game, but he made an immediate impact as it looked as though he had scored with his first touch.
That turned out to be an own goal, yet the striker managed two shots during his cameo appearance.
Garcia's side men should have too much firepower for Iran, but I expect both teams to get on the scoresheet in this one in what is the first meeting between these two teams.
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Belgium vs. Iran odds
Belgium | -225 |
Tie | +300 |
Iran | +600 |
Belgium vs. Iran player props
Anytime goalscorer
Romelu Lukaku (Belgium) | +105 |
Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium) | +240 |
Jeremy Doku (Belgium) | +275 |
Leandro Trossard (Belgium) | +275 |
Mehdi Taremi (Iran) | +500 |
Mohammed Mohebi (Iran) | +550 |
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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.
