Belgium (0-0-2) and New Zealand (0-1-1) will face off today at 11:00 p.m. ET at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada.
Belgium is favored at a -600 price, with the over/under set at 3.5 (+115o / -145u) goals.
Let's get into my Belgium vs. New Zealand prediction.
Belgium vs. New Zealand Prediction
Pick: Both Teams to Score — Yes
My Belgium vs New Zealand best bet is for both teams to find the back of the net. While Belgium is a heavy favorite, their defensive vulnerabilities and New Zealand's need to attack for a potential spot in the knockout stage create a scenario where both sides could score.
Belgium vs. New Zealand Odds
| Belgium Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-2.5 +120 | 3.5 +115o / -145u | -600 |
| New Zealand Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+2.5 -165 | 3.5 +115o / -145u | +1500 |
Belgium vs. New Zealand World Cup Preview
This match is a critical test for a Belgian team that has underperformed. After disappointing draws against Egypt and Iran, the Red Devils must win to guarantee a spot in the next round. Their attack, featuring world-class talent, has been inefficient, producing just one goal from a combined 3.14 expected goals (xG). Expect Belgium to dominate possession and apply constant pressure as they seek to finally convert their chances.
New Zealand enters this game as the clear underdog, but will not be intimidated. After a 3-1 loss to Egypt, their path to the knockout stage is narrow, requiring a historic result here. The likely game plan will be to defend in a low block, absorb pressure, and look for opportunities on the counter-attack or through set-piece situations. For New Zealand, taking points from a European powerhouse would be a massive achievement for the nation.
This will be the first-ever meeting between Belgium and New Zealand. Historically, the All Whites have struggled against European opponents in this competition, with a record of two draws and two losses in four matches. Conversely, this is Belgium’s first encounter with a team from Oceania at the tournament, adding a layer of unfamiliarity to this must-win clash.
Check out the best soccer odds before making your New Zealand vs Belgium picks.
Belgium vs. New Zealand Picks, Parlay
- Both Teams to Score — Yes (+125)
- Belgium to Win & Both Teams to Score (+200)
Belgium entered this tournament with high expectations but has struggled to live up to them, securing only two points from their first two matches. This desperation for a win could lead to an aggressive, open game. New Zealand, despite a recent loss, has shown they can score, netting goals in both of their previous tournament games. The All Whites know that only a victory gives them a chance to advance, so they have every incentive to push forward and exploit any weaknesses in the Belgian squad.
The underlying data support the idea of a vulnerable Belgian defense. In their first two games, they allowed a combined 1.70 expected goals against (xGA). Even Iran, which struggled with possession, managed seven shots with three on target. New Zealand, needing a positive result, will likely get opportunities to test the Belgian backline, especially from set pieces, where Chris Wood is a significant threat.
While Belgium is expected to secure the victory, the odds for a straightforward win feel too short given their recent performances. Combining a Belgium win with both teams scoring offers significantly better value. Belgium has scored only one goal so far — an own goal — and will be motivated to improve their offensive output against a New Zealand defense that has conceded five goals in two matches. An attacking game is expected from both sides, making goals on both ends a strong possibility.
Belgium vs. New Zealand Projected Lineups
Belgium Expected Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper:Courtois
Defenders:Meunier, Theate, Mechele, De Cuyper
Midfielders:Onana, Tielemans; De Bruyne, Trossard, Doku
Forward: Lukaku
New Zealand Expected Lineup (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper:Crocombe
Defenders:Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace
Midfielders:Stamenic, Bell; McCowatt, Singh, Just
Forward: Wood
Belgium vs. New Zealand Projected Lineups
Belgium vs New Zealand will not be impacted by weather. BC Place has a retractable roof that will be closed for the match.
