How Belgium’s Late World Cup Surge Continues

Belgium’s path to the knockout stage was far from certain after a shaky start to the tournament. Their opening 0-0 draw with Morocco and a 2-1 loss to Canada left them in third place with just one point. However, a tactical overhaul under head coach Domenico Tedesco—who replaced former manager Diego Martínez—has transformed their campaign.

Against New Zealand, Belgium displayed the fluid attacking football that has made them a World Cup threat in recent years. The Kiwis, who had beaten Morocco 1-0 in their previous match, were overpowered by Belgium’s pressing and quick transitions. “They were too quick for us,” New Zealand midfielder Michael Boxall told reporters. “We struggled to get out of our own half.”

Key stats from the match (per FIFA official match report):

• Belgium: 61% 39% possession, 18 shots (6 on target), 3 corners
• New Zealand: 39% 61% possession, 6 shots (2 on target), 1 corner
• Belgium’s average passing accuracy: 89% 72%

Lukaku and Doku Lead the Charge in Final Group Match

Lukaku, who had been largely quiet in Belgium’s first two games, was the matchwinner. His first goal came in the 12th minute after a swift counterattack, where he collected a through ball from Charles De Ketelaere and slotted past New Zealand goalkeeper Mark Paston. “Romelu is back,” De Ketelaere said post-match. “He’s been waiting for this moment.”

Doku, who has been a revelation for Belgium since his move from Chelsea, scored his first World Cup goal with a powerful header in the 45th minute after a corner from Thomas Meunier. The goal came as Belgium dominated possession and forced New Zealand into a defensive block.

Lukaku’s second goal sealed the victory when he converted a 78th-minute penalty after a foul by New Zealand defender Ryan Thomas in the box. The referee, according to FIFA’s match officials report, reviewed the incident via VAR and confirmed the penalty.

What This Means for Belgium’s Knockout-Stage Hopes

Belgium now advances to the Round of 16 as Group A winners, where they will face the winner of Group B—a matchup that could feature either England, Serbia, or the United States. Their path is far from guaranteed, but their improved form under Tedesco has restored confidence.

“This result shows we can still compete at the highest level,” Tedesco said in his post-match press conference. “We’ve made the necessary adjustments, and the players have responded. Now we focus on the next challenge.”

Group A Standings (Final):

Next for Belgium: Their Round of 16 opponent will be determined by the results of Group B matches on June 23. If England or Serbia win their group, Belgium could face them in the knockout stage.

New Zealand’s Early Exit and the Road Ahead

New Zealand’s elimination marks the end of their World Cup journey, but their performance against Morocco in their opening match had given them hope. However, a 0-0 draw with Canada followed by the heavy defeat to Belgium left them winless in the tournament.

“We gave everything, but Belgium were just too good,” New Zealand captain Michael Boxall said. “We’ll take positives from this experience, but we knew the road to the knockout stage would be tough.”

For New Zealand, this is their third consecutive World Cup without a victory, a trend that has frustrated fans. Their next appearance in the tournament will be in 2026, when they will co-host with Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Tactical Breakdown: How Belgium Outplayed New Zealand

Belgium’s victory was built on three key tactical adjustments under Tedesco:

1. High Pressing and Quick Transitions: Belgium pressed New Zealand high up the pitch, forcing turnovers and creating chances from counterattacks. Their average pass length was 12 meters, compared to New Zealand’s 8 meters.
2. Midfield Dominance: De Ketelaere and Youri Tielemans controlled the center of the park, with Tielemans completing 9 of his 11 passes in the final third.
3. Wide Play and Crosses: Meunier and Leander Dendoncker provided width, with Dendoncker scoring Belgium’s first goal after a well-timed cross.

New Zealand, meanwhile, struggled to break through Belgium’s midfield. Their defensive shape was often exposed, with Paston making several crucial saves but unable to prevent Belgium’s clinical finishing.

What Happens Next for Belgium?

Belgium’s Round of 16 match will be played on June 27 or 28, depending on the results of Group B. Here’s what fans should watch for:

• Injury Watch: No major injuries were reported post-match, but Lukaku and Doku will be key for Belgium in the knockout stage.
• Tactical Adjustments: Tedesco may rotate some starters, particularly in midfield, to manage fatigue ahead of the knockout rounds.
• Mental Resilience: Belgium’s late surge shows they can perform under pressure—a trait that will be tested in the knockout stage.

Next Match: Belgium’s Round of 16 opponent will be announced after Group B matches conclude on June 23. The draw for the knockout stage will take place on June 24.