NZ, Belgium battle for World Cup knockout berth
New Zealand and Belgium will battle over a place in the 2026 Fifa World Cup knockout phase when they meet in a group G match at BC Place Vancouver on the morning of Saturday, 27 June. Kick-off is at 5am CAT.
FORM
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New Zealand opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Iran in Los Angeles, followed by a 3-1 loss at the hands of Egypt in Vancouver. The All Whites have enjoyed a lead three times across the two matches, so to register just one point and sit at the foot of the table is a major disappointment.
Belgium have also underwhelmed at this World Cup, with a 1-1 draw against Egypt in Seattle followed by a goalless stalemate with Iran in Los Angeles. The Red Devils have seen plenty of the ball and taken many shots at goal, but their only success in finding the back of the net came from an own goal by Egypt’s Mohamed Hany.
In fact, a Belgian player has not scored a World Cup goal since Michy Batshuayi in a 1-0 win over Canada in the group stage in 2022. And Rudi Garcia’s team will be without defender Nathan Ngoy, who was sent off against Iran and is therefore suspended.
The permutations are simple for New Zealand: only a win will suffice for advancement into the knockout phase. As for Belgium, even a draw may be enough to secure progression – but only if group leaders Egypt defeat Iran in a concurrent match in Seattle.
WHAT THE TEAMS ARE SAYING
New Zealand forward Elijah Just
“You can look at it one way, where the draws are maybe not so flattering to Belgium when they're probably favourites to get out of the group. At the same time, we know how hungry they're going to be; they need to beat us to get out of the group, so yeah, we're definitely not underestimating them because of the draws.”
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia
“Sometimes you have to win and in this situation you have to win. Obviously, I would have wished to start better, but this is part of life. This group is not weak. We need to show we are capable of beating New Zealand and moving into the round of 32. First, we need to rest, recover and get ready for this decisive match.”
PLAYERS TO WATCH
New Zealand – Elijah Just
The 26-year-old winger scored both of New Zealand’s goals in the 2-2 draw with Iran. Just then struggled to assert himself against Egypt, but may have more space on the counterattack against Belgium and will hope to lead the All Whites to a famous victory.
Belgium – Leandro Trossard
The Arsenal winger was one of Belgium’s better players against Iran, threatening the defence with his dribbling ability. If Trossard can get his running game going, the Red Devils will have a potent attacking outlet against New Zealand.
Head-to-head
This will be the first meeting of New Zealand and Belgium in men’s international football.
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