The big day has finally arrived! This Thursday marks the official kickoff of the 2026 World Cup. It’s the perfect opportunity to cheer on our national team —with a completely new look—led by Rudi Garcia. With the emergence of dazzling young talents and the return of maestro Kevin De Bruyne, expectations are sky-high ahead of the opening match on June 15 against Egypt. To soak upthe Pharaohs’ vibe before the match, head to Rue de Brabant and step inside the Pyramides restaurant. In this ultra-popular brasserie, you can enjoy the pre-match atmosphere with generous Middle Eastern grilled dishes and a festive ambiance that’s quintessentially Brussels.
The American Odyssey: The DNA of the Red Devils
Under the leadership of Rudi Garcia, Belgium heads into the 2026 World Cup in North America with a new identity. Led by the ever-reliable Kevin De Bruyne and a host of young talents, the Red Devils arrive with a sense of freedom. The group stage schedule is already marked on everyone’s calendars: they kick off on June 15 against Egypt in Seattle, face Iran on June 21 in Los Angeles, before taking on New Zealand on June 26 in Vancouver.
For this 15th World Cup appearance, the excitement is at a fever pitch. It’s worth noting that the nickname “Red Devils ” was coined in 1906, inspired by Camille Jenatzy, the first Belgian driver to break the 100 km/h barrier. As for the country’s only major title, it dates back to the 1920 Antwerp Olympics. A historic passion that, even today, takes hold of Brussels during every major tournament, even prompting our national Manneken-Pis to don his jersey to cheer on the team.
Pyramides: the perfect gourmet spot before the Red Devils’ showdown
To get in the mood for the match against Egypt, head to the vibrant Rue de Brabant. That’s where Pyramides is located, an unconventional brasserie blending Belgian, Mediterranean, and Egyptian influences. Here, the space is simple, functional, and designed to accommodate large groups of friends or families. People come here for a raw, lively neighborhood vibe, which is particularly bustling on big game nights.
On the plate, generosity is the name of the game. The menu delights meat lovers with massive platters of grilled lamb, chicken, and well-seasoned koftas, served with fries, rice, and a variety of sauces. While the value for money is unbeatable for those on a tight budget, the experience is unfiltered. Regardless, if you’re looking for a dose of conviviality and an XXL meat platter before kickoff, this is the perfect spot to grab a bite without breaking the bank.
📍159 Rue de Brabant, 1030 Brussels
