Iran face Belgium with Lukaku confirmed out of the lineup

Belgium on Sunday, and everything is loaded

Iran face Belgium in the World Cup on Sunday. Group stage. The match carries weight far beyond the pitch. Iranian fans in Belgium told Het Nieuwsblad they feel torn: "Football shouldn't be political, but it has become that" (1). That line sits at the heart of this fixture. Your team arrives against a backdrop the federation calls a "dark episode" for football, protesting restrictions placed on the national team (2). Manager Amir Ghalenoei's job is to keep the squad focused. The peace deal with the United States has done little to calm the atmosphere.

Courtois expects a battle

Thibaut Courtois is not taking Iran lightly. "Every World Cup match is a battle. That will also be the case against Iran," the Belgium goalkeeper said (3). Belgium drew 1–1 with Egypt in their opener and need a result.

Lukaku will not start

Romelu Lukaku is back in group training but confirmed he is not ready to start on Sunday (6). Defender Zeno Debast remains out entirely (4). The Belgian expert panel is pushing for a more attacking lineup, with Vanaken in and Onana out, frustrated by what they saw against Egypt (5). One panel member pointed to Castagne: "Those are things that bother me" (5). A vulnerable Belgium side. Your team can hurt them.