New Zealandvs
Belgium
Group Stage · Sat, Jun 27, 2026 · 04:00 ET · BC Place, Vancouver
Houston’s furnace vs Belgium’s aging core
The 3pm CT kickoff at NRG Stadium could punish Belgium’s veterans. Kevin De Bruyne will be 35, Thibaut Courtois 34 — their last World Cup together. New Zealand’s Championship-based squad (Chris Wood, Liberato Cacace) are built for endurance. The All Whites held Italy to a 1-1 draw in 2010. This time, humidity is their 12th man.
Taremi’s aerial threat vs NZ’s Championship spine
Belgium’s likely target man Mehdi Taremi (6’1”) will test New Zealand’s center-backs — likely Burnley’s Nando Pijnaker and Wellington Phoenix captain Scott Wootton. The All Whites conceded just 4 goals in OFC qualifying, but Taremi’s Porto form shows he thrives against physical defenses. Set-pieces could decide this.
Third-place math with Germany looming
Group G’s other fixture sees Germany face Iraq. A Belgium loss here could force them into must-win against the Germans. New Zealand know a point keeps third-place hopes alive — their 2022 playoff loss to Costa Rica showed they can scrap. Houston’s conditions level the playing field.
Match details
- Competition: World Cup 2026
- Stage: Group Stage
- Venue: BC Place, Vancouver
- Kickoff: Sat, Jun 27, 2026 · 04:00 ET
Teams
Related matches
Frequently asked questions
What time is New Zealand vs Belgium?+
3pm CT (4pm ET) on June 27, 2026 at Houston’s NRG Stadium.
Has New Zealand ever beaten a European team at the World Cup?+
No. Their best result was a 1-1 draw with Slovakia in 2010.
How many World Cups have Belgium’s golden generation played?+
This will be their 4th together (2014, 2018, 2022, 2026).
Who is New Zealand’s all-time top scorer?+
Chris Wood (34 goals) — he’ll be 34 during this match.
What’s Belgium’s record against OFC teams?+
They’ve never faced an Oceania opponent in a competitive match.