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The countdown to the World Cup is nearly over. From June 11 to July 19, 48 nations will compete for global football supremacy across venues in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

The draw has divided the teams into 12 groups, with Group G featuring Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand.

Here’s an in-depth look at the four sides aiming to progress beyond the group stage:

With Eden Hazard retired, Kevin De Bruyne now 34, and Romelu Lukaku at 33, many believe Belgium’s golden generation missed their best opportunity to clinch a major title. However, a promising crop of young stars is emerging.

Jeremy Doku has been among the world’s standout wingers this season for Manchester City, while Charles De Ketelaere has started to make his mark in Italy, contributing eight combined goals and assists in Serie A. The experienced Thibaut Courtois remains a rock in goal.

Belgium will feel optimistic about finishing atop what appears to be one of the weaker groups.

Player to watch: Jeremy Doku – The lively winger has illuminated the Premier League this season with five goals and five assists. His pace, dribbling, and direct approach make him a nightmare for defenders.

Predicted stage of elimination: Quarter-finals

Mohamed Salah may still feature at the 2030 World Cup given his exceptional fitness and the fact he will be 33, but signs of decline this season suggest this could be his last major opportunity to make an impact on the global stage.

He will be joined in attack by Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush, who represents the future of Egyptian football and will be eager to guide his nation into the knockout rounds.

Egypt will fancy their chances of advancing, especially since eight of the 12 third-placed teams are set to qualify.

Player to watch: Omar Marmoush – With Salah not at his sharpest for Liverpool this season and the expected heat in North America, Marmoush, now 27 and at his peak, will need to step up. Despite a disappointing campaign, he remains one of Egypt’s key hopes.

Predicted stage of elimination: Round of 32

This will be Iran’s seventh World Cup appearance, though they have never made it past the group stage. Notably, they earned their first-ever World Cup win against the USA in 1998.

Given the relative balance of this group – aside from Belgium – Iran could well pick up enough points to advance alongside Egypt.

Player to watch: Mehdi Taremi – The only Iranian player with multiple World Cup goals to his name.

Predicted stage of elimination: Round of 32

New Zealand make their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010, having previously appeared twice. Remarkably, they went unbeaten in the group stage that year, drawing all three matches and finishing above Italy.

Despite never winning a World Cup match, this edition could offer their best shot at a historic first victory.

Player to watch: Chris Wood – The Nottingham Forest striker endured a tough season with only three league goals but netted 20 the year before. If New Zealand are to make any impact, Wood will have to rediscover his scoring touch.

Predicted stage of elimination: Group stage