Srinagar, June 21 -- By Fazal Ansari

Srinagar - Beneath the bright lights of Hollywood, an intriguing clash awaits as Belgium and Iran meet for the first time ever with Group G delicately poised and every point carrying knockout-stage implications. With all four teams in the group locked on one point after their opening matches, Monday's encounter could prove decisive in shaping the path to the Round of 32.

For Belgium, it is an opportunity to reassert their credentials after a frustrating draw against Egypt and erase memories of their shock group-stage exit in Qatar four years ago. For Iran, it is another chance to show that a team battling travel restrictions, logistical hurdles and off-field distractions can still dream of a historic...