- Recent results: Both teams have 1 point from their opening World Cup Group G 2026 game, with New Zealand top on goal difference and Belgium third.
- Team form: Belgium are unbeaten in their last 5 matches in all competitions, taking 3 wins and 2 draws.
- Recent record: Belgium have won 2 and drawn 1 of their last 3 games away from Belgium.
Kiwis and Red Devils meet with everything to play for
Match context
New Zealand grabbed a draw with Iran away from home in their Group G opener last time out, while Belgium played out a 1-1 tie at home to Egypt. The Kiwis' point on the road was impressive, but they will find it tough to get anything against a Belgium side that have been unbeaten in 5 matches in all competitions, winning 3 and drawing 2.
With both teams still in with a chance of qualifying from the group, Saturday's meeting is a big one at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada.
Tactical outlook
Darren Bazeley took charge of New Zealand in July 2024 and has installed a clear identity for his side, which is pragmatic, disciplined and not afraid to sit back and defend when necessary. The Football Ferns set up in a low block and will look to stifle Belgium's play with a compact, risk-averse approach to the game, pinning their hopes on defensive solidity, set-piece chances and counter-attacks through focal striker Elijah Just.
Belgium boss Rudi Garcia has brought a different philosophy to the Red Devils since taking charge in January 2025, favouring a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formation that is fluid and versatile, but always high tempo, possession dominated and forward thinking. New Zealand will make Belgium work for their chances, but they should control the ball and create plenty of chances against such a defensive set-up. As heavy favorites at 1.24, Belgium are likely to get the win as their attacking quality and squad depth is just too much for New Zealand to deal with.
Lukebakio to lead Belgium to victory
New Zealand have won 1, drawn 1 and lost 3 of their last 5 internationals in all competitions, so we're confident that a Belgium win is the most likely result here. The 'Both teams to score – No' option looks a good bet at 1.57 as Belgium will control the game and New Zealand will be conservative in their approach.
Players to watch
- Dodi Lukebakio has 4 goals in his last 5 appearances for Belgium and should be well suited to the counter-attacking style of New Zealand on Saturday.
- We're taking the young talent to notch a goal here, although Romelu Lukaku has the ability to cause havoc and is also on the scoresheet in Group G.
