Belgium open Group G as 4/6 favorites against an Egypt side that will set up compact and look to counter, with both teams knowing that early points matter in a group that also features Iran and New Zealand. The headline subplot is Mohamed Salah: named to captain but carrying a hamstring concern from the end of Liverpool's season, leaving Egypt's best route to an upset compromised before kickoff.

The matchup hinges on whether Egypt can stay organized enough to deny Belgium's midfield space. De Bruyne pulling strings behind Doku, Trossard and Lukaku gives Belgium multiple ways through, and Doku's ability to win one-on-ones out wide is exactly the threat a narrow low block struggles to contain. Egypt's discipline and a set-piece can earn them a goal, and their 2022 friendly win is a reminder they can hurt Belgium, but a less-than-explosive Salah makes replicating that breakaway execution far harder.

The call is a narrow but clear Belgium win, 2-1, with Egypt likely stealing a goal before Belgium's superior quality tells. This is not a comfortable night, and the draw remains a live outcome if Egypt defend perfectly, but the weight of squad quality and the dilution of Egypt's key counter-threat point to the favorites edging it.