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Rabat – Belgium and New Zealand will meet on Friday in a crucial Group G match at BC Place in Vancouver, with both teams still fighting for a place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Belgium enter the match with two points after drawing 1-1 against Egypt and 0-0 against Iran in their opening two games. Ranked 10th in the world, the Red Devils need at least a draw to secure a place in the Round of 32.
New Zealand, meanwhile, have one point, after a 2-2 draw against Iran and a 3-1 loss to Egypt, and must win to keep their World Cup dream alive. The All Whites, ranked 84th by FIFA, are aiming to reach the knockout stage for the first time in the country’s history.
Speaking ahead of the match, New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley said his team knows what is at stake. “We’re now in a game where we win, we go through,” he said.
Belgium are expected to rely on the attacking quality of Jeremy Doku, Romelu Lukaku, and Leandro Trossard as they look for their first victory of the tournament. After two disappointing draws, Belgian supporters are hoping for changes to the starting lineup and a much stronger performance.
“We’re not supposed to lose, but it can happen, and it makes us nervous,” one Belgium supporter told local media before the match.
For New Zealand, defender Tyler Bindon will once again be in the spotlight. The 21-year-old made history at this World Cup alongside his mother, former New Zealand goalkeeper Jenny Bindon, becoming the first mother-son duo to appear in FIFA World Cup tournaments.
Belgium are expected to make a few changes to their starting lineup as coach Rudi Garcia looks for the team’s first win of the tournament. Jérémy Doku is set to return after missing the draw against Iran for the birth of his son, while Arthur Theate is expected to replace the suspended Nathan Ngoy in defense.Â
Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku are also expected to keep their places as Belgium aim to secure a spot in the Round of 32.Â
New Zealand, meanwhile, are likely to stick with captain Chris Wood leading the attack, supported by midfielder Marko Stamenic and defender Michael Boxall as the All Whites chase a historic victory.
A Belgium victory would send the Red Devils into the knockout stage, while New Zealand need all three points and favorable results elsewhere in the group to continue their historic World Cup campaign.
