Boskamp warns of 'great shame' if Belgium fail against New Zealand

Belgium face New Zealand today at 20:02 in a must-win clash to reach the World Cup knockout stages. With only two points from two games against Egypt and Iran, Rudi Garcia’s side must secure victory to progress, a former international himself, still expects Belgium to win despite their underwhelming start. “With a spine featuring Courtois, De Bruyne and Lukaku, a win should be the most normal thing in the world,” he told Het . New Zealand, meanwhile, have managed just one point from their first two matches. They lost 1-3 to Egypt and drew 2-2 with Iran. “It’s not as if they’re facing a world-class team here,” Boskamp said. “If Belgium don’t qualify, Saturday will be a day of shame.”

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Belgium’s attacking talisman Jérémy Doku is unlikely to start against New Zealand. “We all had huge expectations for Doku at this World Cup. He hasn’t yet made his mark, but hopefully that changes now—even as a substitute, he can make the difference. Maybe he’ll even leave the pitch having done so,” Boskamp concluded. The stakes could hardly be higher: a loss or draw would eliminate Belgium from the tournament.