Belgium and Egypt open World Cup Group G tonight when they clash in Seattle.
The Red Devils’ Golden Generation has been and gone but there are remnants such as Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku.
Egypt return to the World Cup for only the fourth time in their history and will be determined to make a stronger impression than they did in 2018, when they lost all three group matches.
Qualification was relatively comfortable, with the Pharaohs going unbeaten throughout their CAF campaign and finishing top of their section with 26 points.
Mohamed Salah remains the focal point, although concerns over his fitness persist following a hamstring issue towards the end of the domestic season. Omar Marmoush, Trezeguet and Zizo will be expected to share the attacking burden if Salah is not at full capacity.
Where to Watch Belgium v Egypt
Kick-off is scheduled for 12:00 local time in Seattle on Monday, and 20:00 in the UK.
Live coverage will be available on ITV and STV, with streaming available through ITVX and STV Player. Fans can also choose to tune in on BBC or BBC Iplayer.
International broadcast options will vary by region.
Stats for Belgium v Egypt
- Belgium failed to progress beyond the group stage at the 2022 World Cup despite being among the pre-tournament favourites.
- The Red Devils scored 29 goals and conceded just seven during World Cup qualifying.
- Belgium have won three of their last four friendly matches heading into the tournament.
- Egypt qualified unbeaten from their CAF qualifying group.
- The Pharaohs are appearing at just their fourth World Cup finals.
- Egypt have won three of their four previous meetings with Belgium.
- The most recent meeting between the sides ended in a 2-1 Egypt victory in November 2022.
- Mohamed Salah remains Egypt’s key attacking threat but enters the tournament carrying a recent hamstring concern.
- Belgium have kept clean sheets in each of their last two matches.
- Romelu Lukaku is Belgium’s all-time leading goalscorer and will spearhead the attack.
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