Belgium vs. Iran prediction: World Cup odds, best bets, sportsbook promos and expert picks

Following a disappointing 1-1 draw with Egypt in their opener, Belgium enters Matchday 2 of the FIFA World Cup facing early desperation against Iran.

The Red Devils picked up just one point in the opening game in Seattle; stars like Jeremy Doku, Kevin De Bruyne and Leandro Trossard were unable to find the net, though an own-goal salvaged a point against the Egyptians. Heading into Matchday 2, all four teams in Group G have one point, with Iran also drawing with New Zealand 2-2.

The winner of Sunday's game in Los Angeles will take a massive step towards the World Cup knockout stages. Belgium, who finished in third in 2018 but missed the knockout stages completely in 2022, will need to play a much better game than the opener against a fiesty Iran team with plenty of World Cup experience.

Here is a complete preview for Sunday night's matchup, including odds, best bets and a prediction.

Belgium vs. Iran prediction

Though Belgium is not one of the favorites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the pressure is still on the Red Devils to deliver. With all the talent in the squad and the expectations entering the tournament, one point in the opener was underwhelming for everyone on the Belgium train.

But, Group G is wide open, with Iran and New Zealand also playing a thrilling draw in Los Angeles. With every team deadlocked on one point, the margin for error has instantly evaporated. For Belgium, this matchday two clash at SoFi Stadium is no longer just about building momentum -- it is about avoiding early panic.

Iran proved their grit by clawing back from two deficits against New Zealand to salvage a 2-2 draw, coming back from both a 1-0 and 2-1 deficit. Despite significant off-field logistical hurdles, Amir Ghalenoei's squad plays with a distinct, compact defensive shape that is notoriously difficult to break down; in tournaments past, Iran has always shown to be a tough opponent.

Belgium dominated possession against Egypt but lacked the final, lethal pass until Romelu Lukaku's second-half introduction shifted the intensity. The Red Devils scored seconds after Lukaku's entrance, with him crashing the net before an own goal tied up the game. To bypass a disciplined Iranian low-block, Rudi Garcia must rely heavily on the creative engine, De Bruyne and the explosive wing play of Doku and more of the talent the Red Devils possess.

In this game, the pressure is on Belgium, and expect them to deliver. While Iran's counter-attacking structure will test a transitioning Belgian defense, the sheer depth of attacking quality at the Red Devils' disposal should ultimately tell the story. Expect a tense opening half, but Belgium's ability to alter the tempo with individual skill will be the deciding factor. DraftKings had the best odds for Belgium to win by an exact score of 2-0.

Prediction: Belgium to win (-225 on DraftKings or 2-0 exact score +550 on DraftKings)

Belgium vs Iran odds

Here are the three-way moneyline odds across sportsbooks for Belgium vs. Iran.

Belgium vs. Iran best bets

Jeremy Doku anytime goalscorer (+290 on DraftKings)

Doku remains Belgium's most prolific attacking threat; the left winger excelled at Manchester City, and whenever he gets the ball he is able to create off the dribble. Against an Iran team that gives up goals, Doku will have plenty of opportunities to get on the scoresheet.

Doku will be able to create chances on the wing and hopefully find the back of the net for a Belgium team that needs their playmakers to show up. DraftKings had the best odds for this prop.

Romelu Lukaku first goalscorer (+360 on FanDuel)

Lukaku provided the spark Belgium needed in the opener; though he was not credited with the goal, he crashed the net seconds after entering the game as Belgium tied it in the 66th minute. Now, he will probably start against Iran to give Belgium a true No. 9 up top.

Lukaku is Belgium's all-time leading goalscorer, with 90 international goals in 127 appearances for his country; against an Iran defense that won't be able to size up with him, he can find the back of the net, and why not bet him to score first? If its available in your area, FanDuel had the best odds.

Iran over 3.5 corners (+120 on DraftKings)

Against Egypt, Belgium conceded seven corners, and for some spurts in the game the Egyptians were able to control the ball in the attacking third. Expect an Iranian team that loves to counter attack to do the same and push a Belgian defensive line that is going through a transitional phase.

At plus-odds, take Iran to have at least four corners in 90 minutes. DraftKings had the best odds for this prop.

Belgium over 5.5 shots on target (-125 on BetMGM)

The Belgium offense sputtered in the opener against Egypt, tallying only three shots on goal with an offense that is expected to generate more opportunities. With times becoming desperate, expect Belgium's playmakers to let it fly, whether Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard or Lukaku.

One place where Belgium holds an advantage over the rest of the group is the attacking end, and it needs to come through in Los Angeles. BetMGM had the best odds for this one.

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Where to watch Belgium vs. Iran

* TV channel: FS1

* Live stream: fubo

Belgium vs. Iran will be aired nationally on FS1 on Sunday afternoon. Fans looking to live stream the game can find it on fubo, which offers new subscribers a free trial.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)