New Zealand v Belgium: 2026 World Cup Prediction

It’s somewhat surprising, but both Belgium and New Zealand are still very much in the running to reach the next round of the 2026 World Cup. At the same time, they can’t afford a single slip-up. The Red Devils are still waiting for their first World Cup win, whilst the Kiwis have held their own for a surprisingly long time against two established footballing nations. It’s simple: Belgium must win, whilst New Zealand, meanwhile, are sensing a major upset. Read our New Zealand v Belgium prediction here.

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New Zealand v Belgium preview

There is a great deal at stake in Group G. Egypt lead the group with four points, whilst Iran and Belgium are on two points. New Zealand bring up the rear with one point. For the Kiwis, the task is crystal clear: only a win will keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive. Belgium must also win to avoid elimination and secure their place in the next round.

Current Form & Team News

New Zealand

New Zealand have not been easily dismissed in this World Cup. The All Whites started with an impressive 2-2 draw against Iran, followed by a 1-3 defeat to Egypt. Despite that loss, the Kiwis held their own for a long time against a rampant Mohamed Salah. In fact, they led 1-0 for quite some time. With one point in the bag, the task is now simple: beat Belgium. Only then will the dream of reaching the knockout stages remain alive. A draw would mean immediate elimination.

Belgium

Belgium have still not managed to impress at this 2026 World Cup. The Red Devils started with a 1-1 draw against Egypt and then drew 0-0 with Iran. For a team that was tipped as group favourites going into the tournament, this is a disappointment. They seem to be lacking the real sharpness you need at a World Cup. The only player who is truly in form is Thibaut Courtois. And that says it all about their performances so far. Can Rudi Garcia’s side get their act together and finally secure a win at the World Cup?

Head-to-Head

New Zealand and Belgium are facing each other for the first time in history. So there’s no previous record to draw on, which makes this clash all the more exciting.

Predicted line-ups

New Zealand (4-3-2-1):

Crocombe, Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace, Bell, Stamenic, McCowatt, Singh, Just, Wood

Belgium (4-3-2-1):

Courtois, Meunier, Theate, Mechele, De Cuyper, Onana, Tielemans, Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard, Lukaku

New Zealand v Belgium betting tips

Betting tip 1: Kevin de Bruyne to have more than 1.5 shots on target

Kevin De Bruyne is one of the most prolific Belgian shooters at this 2026 World Cup. The captain has already had four shots on target in the first two group matches and will once again be given plenty of freedom to take shots against New Zealand. In a match that Belgium must win, we expect De Bruyne to actively seek out his chances. If Kevin De Bruyne has more than 1.5 shots on target, this will earn you an attractive odds of 2.40 at Oranje Palace.

Betting tip 2: Both teams to score – YES

We’re really looking forward to this match, especially as it’s one where there’s genuinely something at stake. Of course, Belgium are the favourites, but we’ve noticed that New Zealand do score quite easily. Add to that the fact that they’re giving away just a little too much at the back, and there’s a good chance both teams will get on the scoreboard. We’re therefore going for both teams to score – YES. This gives you odds of 2.28 at Oranje Palace.

New Zealand v Belgium Prediction

** Final score: New Zealand 1–3 Belgium **
Belgium have struggled to score in this World Cup so far, but they simply have more individual quality than New Zealand. Besides, you’d think their luck has to turn at some point. What’s more, the Kiwis have already conceded five goals in their matches against Egypt and Iran, which highlights their defensive frailty. We therefore expect a comfortable 3-1 victory for the Red Devils.