Max De Cuyper in World Cup action for Belgium v Egypt

A look at events with an Albion slant as the World Cup moves on to Monday, June 15 (and the early hours of Tuesday).

We could see a Seagulls left-back up against an old adversary of the club (and team-mate of Adam El-Abd’s).

Meanwhile the great day when England play is getting closer.

Max versus Mo?
Max De Cuyper will hope to make up for lost time when Belgium enter the World Cup stage on Monday.

The Albion left-back is a strong contender to start in the Group G fixture against Egypt.

De Cuyper was an unused substitute throughout Euro 2024 but finished the club season quite strongly with the Seagulls, notably with his two assists in the first five minutes of the 3-0 win over Wolves.

He has played at wing-back ahead of the tournament but Belgium generally go with a back four.

Fulham’s Timothy Castagne is being suggested in some sources as favourite to start – and go head-to-head with outgoing Liverpool right winger Mo Salah.

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne warned colleagues: “The first match is always difficult because everyone is extremely motivated.

“In my first three World Cups, I don’t remember an easy match. Egypt plays a very physical game, so it won’t be easy either, but we’re doing everything we can to be ready for this match and for it to go well.”

Salah connection
There is one Albion connection with the Egypt winger who could go up against De Cuyper.

Apart from the fact he tended to score against them, of course.

Former Seagulls defender Adam El-Abd used to be young Salah’s room-mate on international duty with Egypt.

El-Abd told The Argus: “If I had to mark him in training, I made sure I gave myself at least an arm’s length in terms of distance.