DANIEL BLAKE, Journalist

While not the strongest Belgium team in recent history, they still have a potent attack, including Doku, Trossard, and De Bruyne. Despite coming in 13 games unbeaten, they should face a tough test from Egypt, who will look to use their counter-attacking game with Salah and Marmoush against a fairly unproven Belgian defence. Egypt will take heart from recent displays against Brazil and Spain in which they looked very organised and got positive results. My prediction is a 1-1 result.

Other predictions

Spain 3, Cape Verde 0

Saudi Arabia 1, Uruguay 2

Iran 1, New Zealand 0

Rachid Parchment

BRIAN PITTER, Journalist

Belgium are no longer Europe’s golden generation, with many believing this squad is past its peak. However, they still have players capable of producing moments of magic. Kevin De Bruyne remains the heartbeat of this team and, even in the twilight of his career, possesses the vision to change a game in an instant. Meanwhile, Jeremy Doku’s pace and dribbling could be Belgium’s biggest weapon against a stubborn Egyptian defence.

Egypt will be difficult to break down and dangerous on the counter. This feels like a big moment for Mohamed Salah, who may be playing in his final FIFA World Cup and will be eager to leave his mark after a quieter season by his usual standards at Liverpool. I expect a tense and tactical battle, with both sides enjoying spells of dominance before ultimately sharing the spoils in a 1-1 draw.

Other predictions

Spain 6, Cape Verde 0

Saudi Arabia 2, Uruguay 1

Iran 2, New Zealand 1

Daniel Blake

RACHID PARCHMENT, Journalist

Belgium’s golden generation is beginning to age, but they can still turn up and deliver big performances. I don’t expect a silky smooth start here though. They will find their rhythm as the tournament progresses. Egypt, on the other hand, have been in good form recently, an AFCON fourth-place finish and good results heading into the World Cup suggest they’re going to be a hard team to beat. I’m not sure what version of Mohamed Salah shows up, but Omar Marmoush is one to keep an eye on in this game. I expect a 2-1 win for Belgium.

Other predictions

Spain 9, Cabo Verde 0

Saudi Arabia 0, Uruguay 1

Iran 1, New Zealand 0