The 2026 World Cup is still years away, but insiders are already buzzing about Group G — and the narrative swirling around Belgium has taken a dramatic turn. While most pundits assume the Red Devils will steamroll their way through the group, sources close to the team claim the situation is far more volatile than the public realizes. Could this be the tournament where Belgium’s aging core finally crumbles under pressure?
Let’s break down the four teams fighting for survival — and the one squad that could reportedly be on the verge of a stunning collapse.
Belgium: A Dynasty on Borrowed Time?
On paper, Belgium remains the class of Group G. But behind the scenes, according to multiple reports, there is growing concern inside the camp about the age of their star players. Thibaut Courtois (34), Kevin De Bruyne (34), Romelu Lukaku (33), and Axel Witsel (37) are all past their prime, and sources say the team’s medical staff is privately worried about fatigue and injury risks over a long tournament.
Yes, young talents like Jeremy Doku, Matias Fernandez-Pardo, and Maxim De Cuyper offer hope for the future. But one insider told us, “The young guys are talented, but they’ve never faced the pressure of a World Cup knockout stage. The veterans are slowing down. It’s a dangerous mix.”
Belgium has a history of choking in big moments — and this year, the stakes are higher than ever. If they stumble, the fallout could be catastrophic for the program.
Egypt: Salah’s Redemption Arc — or Final Act?
Mohamed Salah endured the worst season of his Premier League career in 2025-26, and some analysts are whispering that the 33-year-old might be in decline. But sources close to the Egyptian camp say Salah is determined to silence the doubters on the world’s biggest stage.
He’ll have help. Omar Marmoush, the Manchester City striker who has been stuck behind Erling Haaland at club level, is reportedly viewed by teammates as a secret weapon. “He’s desperate to prove he’s not just a backup,” one team insider claimed. “If Salah and Marmoush click, Egypt can beat anyone.”
The strategy is simple: defend deep, absorb pressure, and rely on moments of individual brilliance. It’s risky — but if it works, Egypt could be the group’s biggest surprise.
Iran: The Ultimate Wild Card
Iran qualified early, but the real story is the turmoil surrounding the team. Political unrest at home has reportedly created a fractured locker room, and the absence of star striker Sardar Azmoun — left off the squad for political reasons — has allegedly caused tension.
Mehdi Taremi is the focal point now, but one former Iranian international told us anonymously, “The team is a powder keg. If they channel the anger correctly, they could be dangerous. If not, they’ll implode.” Rumors are swirling that some players are considering stepping away from the national team entirely.
Will the chaos galvanize them or destroy their chances? Nobody seems to know for sure.
New Zealand: The Scrappy Underdogs Nobody Wants to Face
Ranked 85th in the world, New Zealand is the clear underdog. But sources inside the All Whites camp say they relish the role. Chris Wood was on fire before a midseason knee injury, and while he’s now healthy, regaining full match fitness is a major question mark.
“If Wood is even 80% of what he was, New Zealand can cause chaos,” a scout told us. “They’re physical, organized, and have nothing to lose. That makes them dangerous.”
Could they steal a third-place spot and sneak into the knockout round? Don’t bet against it.
The Final Prediction: Buckle Up
Our sources predict Belgium will still top the group — but not without a fight. Iran is reportedly expected to snag second place, while New Zealand’s grit could earn them enough points to advance as one of the best third-place teams. Egypt, despite their star power, may fall short in what insiders are calling the most unpredictable group of the tournament.
One thing is certain: Group G is a minefield. And Belgium’s golden generation might be walking straight into it.
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