Belgium faces must-win World Cup clash against New Zealand after two draws

Belgium's World Cup campaign hangs in the balance ahead of their final Group G match against New Zealand on Saturday, June 28, at 5 a.m. Belgian time. The Red Devils have collected just two points from two matches, sitting third in the group behind leaders Egypt (4 points) and level with Iran (2 points). New Zealand, with one point, are bottom but still mathematically in contention.

The stakes for Belgium

A win guarantees Belgium a place in the last 16. They could even top the group if they beat New Zealand by a three-goal margin and the other match between Egypt and Iran ends in a draw, or if Iran win by a smaller goal difference. A draw might also be enough if Egypt defeat Iran. Defeat would send the 2018 World Cup semi-finalists home at the first hurdle.

Wake up!

The Belgian press has described a potential early elimination as "the greatest humiliation in our history." The team, led by coach Rudi Garcia, failed to score in a 0-0 draw with Iran and were held 1-1 by Egypt earlier in the group stage.

Lineup changes

Garcia has reacted by making several changes to his starting eleven for the New Zealand match, as reported by La Libre.be. Jérémy Doku returns on the wing after recovering from a respiratory infection that kept him out of the Iran game. Charles De Ketelaere also comes into the attack, with Romelu Lukaku dropping to the bench. In midfield, Hans Vanaken replaces Nicolas Raskin, while Timothy Castagne starts at right-back in place of Thomas Meunier. Arthur Theate partners Brandon Mechele in central defence, forced by Nathan Ngoy's suspension.

Group G permutations

All four teams can still qualify from Group G. Egypt, with four points, will advance with a win or a draw against Iran. Iran must win to be sure of progression, but could still go through with a draw if Belgium lose. New Zealand, who drew 1-1 with Iran in their opener, need a victory and a favourable result in the other match to reach the knockout stage of a 48-team World Cup for the first time.

Fan and media reaction

The pressure on the Belgian side has been immense. RTBF has launched an interactive fan cam, urging supporters to send videos of encouragement that will be broadcast live during the match. "Don't wait for kick-off or until you're on your sofa tomorrow morning: send us your cheers today!" the broadcaster told viewers. Meanwhile, national media have called on the team to "wake up" and avoid a repeat of their group-stage exit in 2022.

The match in Vancouver is the culmination of a dramatic group phase. With Egypt and Iran facing off simultaneously in Seattle, the final standings could shift several times before the night is over.