New Zealand vs Belgium: Belgium Must Win or Risk Going Out
New Zealand vs Belgium closes Group G with Belgium under real pressure to win and reach the knockouts.
New Zealand are bottom and chasing a first ever World Cup win, while Belgium have the stars to take over, at BC Place in Vancouver.
Predictions
Belgium have to win to be safe, and almost everyone expects their stars to deliver.
New Zealand have nothing to lose, so they will sit deep and hope for a shock.
- Our prediction: Belgium win 3-0.
- Racing Post: a Belgium win.
- Yahoo Sports: a Belgium win, with over 2.5 goals.
What does each team need?
Belgium sit 3rd in Group G on 2 points, and a win would make sure they go through.
A draw might still be enough for Belgium, but only if Iran lose their game against Egypt, so they cannot relax.
New Zealand sit at the bottom of the group and are chasing a win, plus a bit of help from other games, to stay in.
In truth, this is close to must-win for Belgium and a long shot for New Zealand.
Why are Belgium such big favorites?
Belgium have a squad full of stars who play for the biggest clubs in Europe.
They have drawn both games, though, against Egypt 1-1 and Iran 0-0, so the pressure is on.
Kevin De Bruyne, the number 7, and striker Romelu Lukaku, the number 9, are the men to unlock this game.
That quality is why the bookmakers price Belgium at about -500 to win.
Can New Zealand pull off a shock?
New Zealand have been brave but have only managed 1 point so far.
They drew 2-2 with Iran before losing 3-1 to Egypt.
Their hope is big striker Chris Wood, the number 9, who can score from very little.
New Zealand have never won a World Cup game, so a win here would be the shock of the tournament.
Our call: Belgium 3-0
We are going with a comfortable 3-0 Belgium win.
Belgium have far too much quality, and they know they have to win this one.
Once they score the first goal, more should follow against a tired New Zealand side.
Expect De Bruyne and Lukaku to make the difference.
What is at stake in Group G?
For Belgium this is about survival, because a slip-up could send a big team home early.
For New Zealand it is about pride, and a tiny chance of sneaking into the round of 32.
The other game, Egypt vs Iran, is happening at the same time and decides the rest of the group.
So Belgium will have one eye on that result while they chase their own win.
Where and when can you watch?
The game is on Friday June 26, 2026, at BC Place in Vancouver.
Kickoff is 20:00 (8:00 PM) Pacific time.
You can also see all the details on the match page.
Need a seat for it? Take a look at our World Cup tickets guide.
Common questions
Who are Belgium's key players to watch?
Their playmaker is Kevin De Bruyne, the number 7, one of the best passers in the game. Up front, the number 9 Romelu Lukaku is their main scorer, with the number 11 Jérémy Doku of Manchester City running at defenders.
Who are New Zealand's key players to watch?
Their danger man is striker Chris Wood, the number 9, of Nottingham Forest. In midfield, the number 8 Marko Stamenić of Swansea City tries to keep them ticking.
Who is Kevin De Bruyne?
Kevin De Bruyne is Belgium's star midfielder and one of the best creative players of his generation. When Belgium need a moment of magic, he is the man they look to.
Have New Zealand ever won a World Cup game?
No. New Zealand have never won a match at a World Cup, so beating Belgium would be a huge moment in their football history.
Sources
- Racing Post: New Zealand vs Belgium prediction and tips
- Yahoo Sports: New Zealand vs Belgium preview and best bets
- Squawka: New Zealand vs Belgium World Cup 2026 prediction
Sources checked 06/26/2026