Belgium’s World Cup route mapped: second place still viable after Senegal simulation

After a draw against Egypt in their opening World Cup match, Belgium’s route to the knockout stages remains wide open. Speeldag 1 at the World Cup is complete and Speeldag 2 is already lined up, with the Red Devils needing to secure results against Iran and New Zealand to keep their campaign on track. Current simulations by Football Meets Data indicate Senegal as Belgium’s most likely opponent in the round of 16. The United States also emerges as a strong contender, with both teams impressing so far, including Senegal’s strong first-half display against France. The probability of Belgium facing the USA in the last 16 has risen after Czech Republic and South Africa played a draw on Thursday night. That result reduced the chances of either team finishing among the best four third-placed teams. However, outcomes could still shift dramatically before the group stage concludes. Belgium currently sit in a favorable position if they top Group F, which includes Iran, Egypt and New Zealand. A group win would keep them in the same bracket of the tournament, setting up a potential last-16 clash in Seattle on 1 July at 22:00 Belgian time. A second-place finish would not necessarily signal trouble. Simulations suggest Belgium would then face Australia in the round of 16, followed by a possible meeting with Argentina or Uruguay in the last 16. The quarter-final path could then include Colombia, Senegal, Ecuador or Switzerland.

Meunier urges Belgium to beat Iran and secure World Cup progress

If Belgium top their group, potential semi-final opponents include France, Germany or Morocco. As runners-up, they could face Brazil or England in the semi-finals. The route remains uncertain until all group matches are played. Belgium’s next match is against Iran on 21 June in Los Angeles, kicking off at 21:00 Belgian time. Their final group game is against New Zealand on 27 June in Vancouver at 05:00 Belgian time, reflecting the time-zone challenge for supporters. Group D, featuring the USA, Paraguay, Australia and Turkey, is one of the key reference points. The winner of that group could face Belgium in the round of 16 if the Red Devils finish as one of the best four third-placed teams. Czech Republic currently sit third in their group according to simulations.

Rudi Garcia weighs options as Doku misses Belgium clash with Iran

A group win for Belgium would place them in the same half of the bracket as the Group D winner, potentially leading to a quarter-final against the Group H winner or a runner-up from three other groups on 10 July at 21:00 in Inglewood. Belgium’s campaign remains fluid. Wins against Iran and New Zealand are essential to avoid dropping into a more difficult part of the draw, especially if Egypt finish above them in the group standings.