Belgium can still reach World Cup knockout vs New Zealand

Belgium can still qualify for the World Cup 2026 knockout stage if they beat New Zealand on June 27, after drawing 1-1 with Egypt and 0-0 with Iran in their first two group matches. The Red Devils sit on three points in Group G, trailing Egypt by one point and needing a win to secure at least a best‑third place. After the opening matches, Belgium sit third in Group G with two points, level with Iran but behind Egypt who have four points. Iran rank above Belgium because they have scored two goals in the tournament while Belgium have scored only one. New Zealand sit bottom of the group with a single point, having lost both opening games. The final group match sees Belgium travel to face New Zealand on 27 June, with Rudi Garcia and his squad preparing for the decisive encounter.

Vanaken: 'Bondscoach sees me as key for Belgium at World Cup'

The competition format guarantees that the first and second placed teams in each group progress automatically, and the eight best third‑placed sides also move on to the round of 32. A victory over New Zealand would place Belgium securely in the top two, regardless of other results. If Belgium win, they could even claim the group title, but that depends on the outcome of the Egypt‑Iran match. Should Belgium draw, they would need Egypt to defeat Iran to advance; a draw between Egypt and Iran would force the application of FIFA tiebreakers such as goal difference and goals scored.

Jeremy Doku's fitness doubts ahead of Belgium vs New Zealand

Failing to finish among the best third‑placed teams would end Belgium’s campaign, as only the eight highest‑ranked third places continue. In that scenario, the Red Devils’ World Cup journey would conclude after the 27 June fixture.