Belgium vs Iran

The tactical tape Belgium and Iran present makes this the most compelling contrast in Group G's second round. These two nations have limited competitive history — a handful of friendlies across decades — but the stylistic collision is stark enough to make past meetings almost irrelevant. Belgium, for all their attacking wealth, have historically struggled against teams that refuse to engage.

Iran's entire footballing identity is built on the principle of organised resistance: two banks of four, a deep-lying forward, and an unwavering commitment to making the opponent play through them rather than around them. At the 2018 World Cup, Iran nearly toppled both Spain and Portugal in Group B, falling marginally short only through a VAR decision and an Iago Aspas heel-flick in stoppage time. Belgium know this trap. De Bruyne will attempt to unlock the defence with diagonals and half-spaces — the same channels Iran deliberately clog.

The question is whether Openda's pace or Bakayoko's directness can stretch Iran sufficiently to create gaps in that disciplined structure. Iran will instruct Azmoun and Taremi to press Belgium's back line selectively, targeting the moment centre-backs recycle possession lazily. Iran's record against European opposition at World Cups remains patchy, but those narrow defeats in Russia suggest the margins are thin.

If Belgium grow frustrated and force passes into congested areas, Iran will counter-attack with lethal intent. Patience is not optional — it is the price of victory.