New Zealand and Belgium face each other in their third-round clash on Saturday, with both sides needing a victory to guarantee a place in the Round of 32. The stakes are high, as anything less than a win could see either team eliminated from the competition.
New Zealand come into this crucial fixture struggling for form after failing to win either of their opening Group G matches. In their first game, they showed promise going forward, with Elijah Just scoring twice to help them take the lead on two occasions, but they eventually had to settle for a 2-2 draw against Iran.
Their defensive issues became more evident in the second match, where they lost 3-1 to Egypt despite scoring first. With just one point so far, the All Whites must now secure a historic win to keep their tournament hopes alive.
New Zealand team news
Matt Garbett has been ruled out for the rest of the tournament. The Peterborough United player picked up a serious hamstring injury during training, leading head coach Darren Bazeley to call up Auckland FC forward Logan Rogerson as his replacement in the 26-man squad.
Apart from that significant injury, New Zealand have no additional fitness concerns following their defeat to Egypt.
Bazeley is expected to select his strongest available lineup, placing particular emphasis on captain Chris Wood, who will lead the attack.
The team will be aiming to respond positively and deliver a performance strong enough to secure a much-needed win.
New Zealand predicted lineup
Possible New Zealand starting XI: Crocombe; Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace; Stamenic, Bell; McCowatt, Singh, Just; Wood
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 2am BST on Saturday, 27th June.
How to watch New Zealand vs Belgium?
UK Fans can watch the match live for free on BBC One.
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