World Cup: Group G set for dramatic finale as Theate gets maiden start

Arthur Theate gets his first World Cup start for Belgium’s decisive game against New Zealand. Eintracht Frankfurt’s defender made his debut last week after a straight red card to Nathan Ngoy in the goalless draw with Iran.

Theate was an unused substitute throughout the 2022 World Cup when Belgium failed to get out of their group. They could miss out on the knockout stages once again if they don’t record their first win of the tournament against New Zealand, who still have a chance to make the knockout stages for the first time.

Meanwhile, group leaders Egypt will face Iran in the other game in the group. Mohamed Salah helped Egypt to their first-ever World Cup win on matchday two, while Iran drew both of their matches so far in the competition.

Here are the lineups for the last games of Group G at the 2026 World Cup.

Confirmed New Zealand vs. Belgium Lineups

New Zealand XI: Crocombe; Payne, Bindon, Surman, Cacace; Stamenic, Bell; Thomas, Singh, Just; Wood ©

Belgium XI: Courtois; Castagne, Mechele, Theate, de Cuyper; Vanaken, Tielemans ©; Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard; Charles de Ketelaere

Confirmed Egypt vs. Iran Lineups

Egypt XI: Shobeir; Hany, Rabia, Abdelmonem, Fatouh; Lasheen, Ashour; Ziko, Saber, Trezeguet; Salah

Iran XI: Beiranvand; Mohammadi, Kanaani, Khalilzadeh, Nemati, Rezaeian; Mohebi, Ezatolahi, Ghorbani, Ghoddos; Taremi ©