Belgium take on Iran tonight needing a win to kick-start their World Cup challenge.
The Red Devils drew 1-1 with Egypt in their Group G opener with Romelu Lukaku having a major impact after coming off the bench.
It was otherwise a frustrating day for Belgium as the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku, Leandro Trossard and Youri Tielemans struggled to influence the game.
While doubts over Lukaku’s fitness may again limit how much he can be involved, Belgium will be confident of their stars having more joy going forward against an Iran side that had problems containing New Zealand in a 2-2 draw with the lowest-ranked side in the tournament.
Iran are competing in the World Cup while dealing with significant logistical challenges.
Having moved their base camp from Arizona to Mexico amid their country’s war with the United States and Israel, Iran have been forced to travel internationally for each of their group stage fixtures, all held in the US. They are required by US authorities to enter the country within 24 hours of a game and depart on the same day.
Iran lodged a complaint with FIFA over the travel restrictions, with coach Amir Ghalenoei describing his side as the “most oppressed” team at the World Cup.
Where to watch Belgium v Iran: TV and online streams
Belgium v Iran kicks off at 8:00pm UK time on Sunday. It will be broadcast on ITV1 and STV. It will be available to stream via ITVX and the STV Player.
Stats for Belgium v Iran
- This will be the first meeting between Belgium and Iran.
- Belgium have scored only one goal across their last three World Cup games.
- The Red Devils have lost just one of their seven World Cup matches against AFC opponents (W4, D2). That defeat came against Saudi Arabia in 1994.
- Iran have faced UEFA opponents 10 times at the World Cup, losing seven games and drawing two. Their lone win was against Wales at the 2022 tournament.
- Only two of their last seven World Cup matches have seen Iran fail to score.
- At the same time, they have kept just two clean sheets across that span.
