Drawn into a challenging Group I, France, Senegal and Norway must perform at their best in the FIFA World Cup. Belgium in Group G along with Spain and Uruguay in Group H face somewhat less demanding opening fixtures.
Group G includes Belgium, Iran, Egypt and New Zealand. Belgium reached third place in 2018, yet its squad has changed since then. Players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Thibaut Courtois, Romelu Lukaku and Axel Witsel remain, while the previous defensive unit is gone. Coach Rudi Garcia will rely on the forward line, including Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku. Questions persist about Lukaku, who has limited playing time this season. Belgium remains the group favorite ahead of Iran and Egypt.
Iran has appeared in the last three World Cups but exited at the group stage each time. Current tensions with the United States have raised concerns about its involvement. Due to security issues, Iran will be based in Mexico and face long travel for matches in Los Angeles and Seattle.
Egypt holds a slight edge on paper thanks to Mohamed Salah, though he has yet to shine on the world stage after limited appearances in 2018. The 33-year-old seeks to prove his value following his departure from Liverpool. Egypt has never won a World Cup match despite seven Africa Cup of Nations titles.
New Zealand, ranked 85th, offers the lowest-ranked opposition. Its striker Chris Wood will need close attention.
Group H contains Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde. Spain has not advanced beyond the round of 16 since its 2010 triumph and aims to go further in 2026. Ranked second globally, the European champions field a strong squad without Real Madrid players. Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal leads the attack alongside Nico Williams and Mikel Oyarzabal. The midfield offers depth with Pedri, Gavi and others, while the defense and goalkeepers provide balance.
Uruguay, coached by Marcelo Bielsa, seeks to challenge for first place despite missing key strikers. Saudi Arabia hopes to repeat its 2022 upset but has a new coach. Cape Verde makes its debut as one of the smallest nations at the tournament.
Group I features France, Senegal, Norway and Iraq. France has reached the final in four of the last seven World Cups.
