World Cup 2026: will Belgium make a winning start against Egypt?

It has been stirring up excitement for four days now. Awaited for four years, the World Cup 2026 has kicked off across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Brazil v Morocco has been the pick of the fixtures so far, but there have been few surprises beyond the draw between Australia and Turkey (1-1) and the share of the spoils between Qatar and Switzerland (1-1).

Suffice to say we are hoping Belgium won't be the first big nation to come unstuck. GoldenVegas Sport, the Belgian sportsbook, runs through what is at stake as the Red Devils get their campaign under way, knowing they cannot afford to disappoint against Egypt.

Belgium v Egypt match preview: the bookmakers make Belgium favourites

There's no point spinning things out to keep up the suspense. Against the Pharaohs, our national side are rated as favourites by the bookmakers. The price of 1.62 before kick-off could still shift during the game, in the live betting, depending on how things unfold.

Even so, it is hard to see Rudi Garcia's men slipping up, especially after a successful build-up rounded off in the best possible way with a friendly win against Tunisia at the Heysel.

Whether in our venues or on our website, the whole country will be right behind Romelu Lukaku's side, hoping for a first win of the tournament.

*Odds are subject to change. Event ends: 15 June at 9pm.

Contenders for the world title: can the Red Devils go all the way?

A win would let our players look ahead and take a big step towards the knockout stage before facing Iran and New Zealand. For Belgium, the road to the knockout stage really ought to be a formality at the group stage. One thing is certain: the whole country is hoping our representatives stay in Seattle, their base camp, right up to 19 July, the date of the final. Is that just wishful thinking? For now, Belgium are seen as outsiders.

Yet nothing is impossible with players of the calibre of Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne and Axel Witsel. For the golden generation's last dance, will they give themselves the finest gift of all by lifting the World Cup?

*Odds are subject to change. Event ends: 15 June at 9pm.

A 25% BetXtra is available on every live bet placed on Belgium v Egypt.