New Zealand vs Belgium prediction 27.06.2026 | World Cup

New Zealand make the trip to Vancouver after a disappointing 3:1 defeat against Egypt left their qualification chances hanging by a thread Finn Surman gave the All Whites a first-half lead, but Darren Bazeley’s side faded badly after the interval as Egypt scored three second-half goals.

The All Whites had opened their campaign with a battling 2:2 draw against Iran, with Elijah Just scoring twice. However, New Zealand are still searching for their first-ever World Cup win, and now face a difficult final group fixture against a Belgium side in need of the points.

Bazeley’s side have shown they can carry a threat in the final third, scoring three goals across their first two matches, however New Zealand’s biggest issue has been in defence. The All Whites have conceded five goals in their two group matches, and will need to improve without the ball against a Belgian side packed with attacking quality.

Head coach Bazeley is tipped to name the same side that started against Egypt. The All Whites have no reported injury issues.

Nottingham Forest forward Chris Wood will lead the attack as he looks for his first goal of the competition.

Belgium arrive in Vancouver after a frustrating start to their Group G campaign. Rudi Garcia’s side were held to a 1:1 draw against Egypt in their opening fixture before a 0:0 stalemate with Iran last time out. 

The Red Devils have been below their best in the final third, and Garcia could look to make changes as Belgium search for a first win of the tournament. 

Before their failure to pick up victories in their first two Group G fixtures, Belgium had been in solid form, winning eight of ten previous matches. With qualification on the line, the Red Devils will be desperate to recapture winning form at BC Place.

Head coach Garcia is likely to make changes to his selection. Jeremy Doku could earn a recall after the Man City forward missed the draw against Iran due to illness before travelling back to London for the birth of his son.

The winger is expected to rejoin the Belgium squad before the New Zealand match, and could come into the starting XI. 

Nathan Ngoy misses out after his dismissal against Iran.