The race for a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage continues as New Zealand take on Belgium in a decisive Group H clash at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver on 27 June 2026, 11:00 AM (GMT+8 / Malaysia Time). With both teams still searching for their first victory of the tournament, this fixture could determine who keeps their Round of 32 hopes alive.
Neither side has managed to make a winning start, making this one of the most important matches of the group stage. A victory would significantly improve the winner’s chances of progressing, while anything less could leave qualification hanging by a thread.
Belgium Team News
Belgium may receive a timely boost with the possible return of Jeremy Doku, who recently traveled to London for the birth of his first child. Although he has rejoined the squad, the winger remains a doubt for the match. If Doku is unavailable, Alexis Saelemaekers or Dodi Lukebakio is expected to start on the right flank.
The Red Devils will definitely be without Nathan Ngoy, who serves a suspension after being sent off in Belgium’s previous match against Iran. His absence is likely to see Arthur Theate move into the heart of the defense alongside Brandon Mechele.
Belgium will once again look to experienced stars such as Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois to guide the team through this must-win encounter.
New Zealand Team News
New Zealand head coach Darren Bazeley is expected to stick with the lineup that played against Egypt, showing confidence in the squad despite the disappointing start to the tournament.
The only potential adjustment could come on the right wing, where Ben Old or Francis de Vries could be handed a starting role. Elsewhere, the lineup is expected to remain unchanged.
Much of New Zealand’s attacking hopes will once again rest on veteran striker Chris Wood. Despite being his country’s all-time leading scorer, Wood has yet to find the back of the net in the opening two World Cup matches and will be eager to end that drought against Belgium.
Predicted Lineups
New Zealand (4-2-3-1): Crocombe; Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace; Stamenic, Bell; McCowatt, Singh, Just; Wood.
Belgium (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Meunier, Theate, Mechele, De Cuyper; Raskin, Tielemans; Saelemaekers, De Bruyne, Trossard; Lukaku.
Match Prediction
This match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams knowing that three points are crucial for their qualification hopes. New Zealand have shown resilience defensively but have struggled to convert their chances, while Belgium possess greater individual quality and experience across the pitch.
Predicted Score: New Zealand 1-2 Belgium
If Belgium’s attacking stars can produce their best football, they should have enough to edge past the All Whites in what promises to be an entertaining contest.
Contact Us :
LiveChat : W88 Malaysia
Telegram: W88Malaysia