Belgium vs Iran Picks and Prediction for Sunday, June 21, 2026

By: David Anicetti Published 06/17/2026, 01:02 PM ET
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Belgium and Iran meet at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on Sunday at 3:00 PM ET in a critical Group G matchup at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both teams sit on one point after opening-match draws. Belgium shared a 1-1 result with Egypt, while Iran battled back twice in a 2-2 draw against New Zealand. With all four teams in the group level on one point, the importance of this fixture is obvious. Belgium enters as the favorite at -235 on the moneyline, while Iran is priced at +700. Cash in a winning ticket with our free World Cup picks.

Belgium Preview

Belgium's opener against Egypt was a frustrating result, but the overall performance was better than the scoreline suggested. The Red Devils controlled possession for long stretches and generated 1.35 expected goals while creating several dangerous opportunities. Egypt took advantage of a defensive breakdown to score first, forcing Belgium to chase the game throughout much of the second half.

The match changed immediately when Romelu Lukaku entered in the 66th minute. Belgium found an equalizer less than a minute later as Lukaku's movement forced an own goal from Mohamed Hany. Kevin De Bruyne remained the focal point of the attack, and Belgium continued creating chances after drawing level. The concern is finishing. Belgium scored five goals against Tunisia and five against the United States earlier this year, but failed to capitalize consistently against Egypt despite carrying much of the play.

Belgium still enters this match in strong form, unbeaten in five matches with three wins and two draws. The talent advantage remains significant, especially through De Bruyne, Lukaku, and a deep midfield group capable of controlling possession.

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Injuries: Belgium does not have any reported injuries

Iran Preview

Iran showed impressive toughness in its opening draw against New Zealand. Team Melli fell behind twice but responded on both occasions, earning a valuable point in a match that could prove important later in the group stage. Ramin Rezaeian scored the first equalizer before providing the cross that led to Mohammad Mohebbi's second-half goal.

The attack looked dangerous throughout the match, generating 1.50 expected goals and consistently finding opportunities through direct play. Mehdi Taremi remained a threat whenever Iran advanced into the final third, while Rezaeian was arguably the team's most influential player with a goal and an assist. Iran has now scored multiple goals in several recent matches and enters with confidence despite not securing all three points.

Defensively, however, there were issues. New Zealand found space in transition and converted two goals from quality opportunities. Belgium's attack presents a tougher challenge than what Iran faced in its opener. Iran will likely need a compact defensive shape and another strong performance from its experienced core if it hopes to take points from one of Europe's most talented squads.

Injuries: Iran does not have any reported injuries.

Belgium vs Iran Pick

  • Belgium -1.5 (+120)

Belgium's draw against Egypt should not overshadow how well the team played for large portions of that match. The Red Devils created chances, controlled possession, and became far more dangerous once Lukaku entered the attack. Iran deserves credit for battling back against New Zealand, but Belgium possesses significantly more quality across the field. With the pressure of the group standings increasing, expect Belgium to push aggressively for three points and create enough opportunities to win by multiple goals.

Belgium vs Iran Over/Under Pick

  • Over 2.5 Goals (-115)

Iran showed in its opener that it can contribute offensively, scoring twice and generating quality chances. Belgium has also been involved in high-scoring matches recently, including victories over Tunisia and the United States before the tournament. Both teams know a win would put them in excellent position to advance, which should create a more open second half if the match remains level. Belgium's attacking talent combined with Iran's ability to threaten on counters makes over 2.5 goals the play.

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