Belgium starting lineup vs New Zealand confirmed for FIFA World Cup 2026 match

Belgium has faced New Zealand only once at the men’s senior level before.

Belgium are all set to lock horns against New Zealand in their group stage game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match will be played at BC Place in Vancouver on Friday, June 26. The two sides are drawn in Group G alongside Iran and Egypt, who will feature in an action-packed clash at the same time at the Seattle Stadium in Washington.

The top stars of De Rode Duivels, who guided the side to success in the last couple of editions, have grown old, and the young players in the side lack top-tier experience. That has been the biggest issue for Belgium in the ongoing edition.

De Rode Duivels have started their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Egypt. In the same match, an own goal by Mohamed Hany helped the European side keep the final score level. In the second game, they were held for a 0-0 draw by Iran as their defence gave a gritty display.

In the final group stage game, De Rode Duivels are required to finally open their goal-scoring count and secure qualification to the next round with a win.

Also Read: New Zealand vs Belgium: Five key battles to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026

Belgium lineup for the FIFA World Cup match against New Zealand

Belgium XI: Thibaut Courtois (GK); Timothy Castagne, Brandon Mechele, Arthur Theate, Maxim De Cuyper; Hans Vanaken, Youri Tielemans; Leandro Trossard, Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku; Charles De Ketelaere.

Thoughts on the lineup

Romelu Lukaku did not enjoy a fruitful campaign and, as a result, has been rested. Leandro Trossard will lead the attack for Belgium. Jérémy Doku and Charles De Ketelaere will add to the attack from the wings, while Kevin De Bruyne will be the creative engine.

Youri Tielemans and Hans Vanaken will add stability to the team’s framework. Arthur Theate and Brandon Mechele will play as the centre-backs, while Maxim De Cuyper and Timothy Castagne are the full-backs in the four-man defence. Thibaut Courtois will keep the gloves.

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