This was a fairly even match. Belgium held 54 percent possession, had an xG advantage of 1.31 to 1.07 and narrowly out-shot Egypt 15-14 (3-3 on goal). The two favorites in Group G looked the part on Monday. Spain held 74 percent possession, attempted 27 shots (seven on goal), won 11 corners and had an xG (expected goals) of 2.29.

Demonstrators amassed Monday outside Iran’s first World Cup match, waving the pre-revolutionary lion-and-sun flags banned inside the stadium and calling for change in Tehran. Iran's participation in the World Cup,

As World Cup fever takes hold, commercials become more patriotic, the U.S. national team jerseys suddenly appear on the backs of influencers, and a few outlets inevitably dust off the “monthlong Super Bowl” take.

Get the best Iran vs. New Zealand predictions ahead of today's World Cup clash. Free World Cup picks for June 15.

The 2026 World Cup continues on Day 4 as Groups E and F finally get underway on Sunday. In Group F, the Netherlands and Japan delivered the game of the tournament thus far in a 2-