Belgium and Iran meet in Los Angeles knowing victory could all but guarantee qualification from Group G after both sides collected valuable points in their opening matches.
The Red Devils were forced to fight back against Egypt in their opener, recovering from a goal deficit to earn a 1-1 draw in Seattle.
The result extended their unbeaten run since March 2025 to 14 matches, but Belgium remain without a victory in their last three World Cup fixtures.
After suffering a shock group-stage elimination in Qatar four years ago, Belgium know another disappointing campaign cannot be allowed to unfold.
Their previous World Cup record shows they have the quality to compete, having won 11 of their previous 13 matches in the tournament before this recent dip.
However, defensive improvement will be crucial, with Belgium failing to keep a clean sheet in their last seven World Cup matches, their longest such streak since 1970.
Iran arrive with confidence after twice coming from behind to draw 2-2 against New Zealand in their opening fixture.
Despite difficult circumstances surrounding their preparation, including the challenge of travelling between their base in Mexico and match venues in the United States, Carlos Queiroz’s side showed impressive resilience.
Captain Mehdi Taremi described the situation as a “disaster”, but Iran have shown strong form on the pitch, losing only once in their last eight matches inside 90 minutes.
A victory against Belgium would see Iran achieve an unbeaten opening two matches at a World Cup for the first time in their history and place them within touching distance of a first-ever knockout-stage appearance.
The two nations have never met before, while Iran’s record against European opponents at the World Cup remains difficult, with just one victory from ten matches.
Romelu Lukaku made an immediate impact after coming off the bench against Egypt and remains a major threat, with three of his last four international goals arriving after the 75th minute.
Iran, on the other hand, will look to Ramin Rezaeian, who has scored in his last two appearances for the national team.
Kick-off is set for tonight at 10:00 pm.
