Group E was one of eight groups at the 1998 FIFA World Cup into which the 32 teams were divided. Mexico and the Netherlands qualified after they both beat South Korea and drew with Belgium before drawing with each other. The Netherlands' five goals against South Korea put them top on goal difference. Belgium could have qualified with a big win in their final game against South Korea, who were already out, but they only managed a draw and were eliminated.

This fixture was a repeat of the two teams' second match at the 1994 tournament, won by Belgium.