World Cup 2026: Belgium vs Egypt Tips, Odds & Prediction

* Odds from Betway, correct at time of writing.

Belgium begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle, with kickoff at 21:00 CAT on Tuesday, June 16. Rudi Garcia's side arrive in excellent form, having won four of their last five matches, and a generation built around Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku will expect to start their Group G bid with a victory. Egypt counter with the world class threat of Mohamed Salah and a disciplined, hard-working structure that makes the Pharaohs awkward to break down. For all our World Cup betting tips, head to our dedicated section.

Belgium

Belgium are clear favourites here and from my point of view Garcia's attacking approach should give Egypt problems from the first whistle. De Bruyne remains top class in the number ten role, Doku offers genuine pace out wide, and recent wins over Tunisia and away at Croatia showed how quickly this side can score in transition; they scored seven goals across those two games. The Red Devils reported no fresh injury or suspension concerns ahead of the tournament, so Garcia can pick his strongest hand in the opener. I expect a controlled, front foot performance with Belgium taking the lead before half time.

Predicted Lineup: Courtois; Meunier, Mechele, Theate, Castagne; Tielemans, De Bruyne, Witsel; Trossard, Lukaku, Doku.

Egypt

Egypt will set up to defend deep and spring forward through Salah, and in my opinion that counterattacking plan is their best route to a result against a stronger side. Hossam Hassan's team reached the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals in January and carry real Premier League quality in Salah and Omar Marmoush. Salah arrives just two goals short of Egypt's all-time scoring record, and he remains the one player capable of punishing any Belgian lapse. I expect the Pharaohs to stay compact and accept long spells without the ball.

Predicted Lineup: El Shenawy; Hany, Abdelmaguid, Rabia, Fattouh; Attia, Fathi, Ashour; Salah, Mostafa Mohamed, Marmoush.

Belgium have far too much quality across the pitch and I expect De Bruyne and Doku to unlock a deep Egyptian block before the hour. Salah will threaten on the break but I see Belgium controlling the game and keeping things tight at the back. My forecast: Belgium 2 Egypt 0.

BTTS: No (1.82)

I am backing BTTS: No and my read on this is that Egypt will prioritise defensive shape and struggle to create clear chances against a settled Belgian backline. Salah is dangerous but Belgium have kept things tidy across their recent run of wins. At 1.82 this looks the soundest value on the board.