There will be no room for caution when New Zealand and Belgium meet in Vancouver, with both nations entering the final round of Group G knowing victory guarantees a place in the World Cup knockout stages.

Belgium’s tournament has yet to catch fire despite remaining unbeaten, while New Zealand have shown enough adventure to suggest they are capable of springing a surprise if the opportunity presents itself.

Belgium still searching for their best

Belgium have collected two draws, but neither performance has convinced. The Red Devils recovered to earn a point against Egypt before being frustrated by an organised Iran side in a match where clear-cut chances were at a premium. Rudi Garcia’s squad still boasts experience and attacking quality, yet the fluency expected from a team of this calibre has rarely been on display.

The pressure is therefore mounting. A draw could leave Belgium relying on the outcome elsewhere, so there is every incentive to approach this fixture with greater ambition than they showed against Iran. The return of Jeremy Doku offers another attacking option, while Romelu Lukaku’s impact from the bench in the opening game remains a reminder that Belgium possess match-winners if the contest opens up.

New Zealand have nothing to fear

New Zealand may only have one point to show for their efforts, but they have made life uncomfortable for both opponents.

They twice led against Iran before settling for a draw and then threatened Egypt for over an hour before the Pharaohs’ greater experience eventually swung the contest. Darren Bazeley’s side have proved they are far more than passengers at this World Cup.

The All Whites have attacked with confidence, particularly through Elijah Just, while Chris Wood’s intelligent link-up play has created opportunities even without adding to his own international goal tally.

The defensive record remains a concern, though. New Zealand have struggled to protect leads throughout the tournament, and another lapse against Belgium could prove terminal.

Team news

Belgium welcome Jeremy Doku back into the squad after he briefly returned home for the birth of his child, although he may not immediately reclaim a starting place. Nathan Ngoy is suspended following his dismissal against Iran, which should see Arthur Theate move into central defence. Timothy Castagne is also pushing for a recall.

Bazeley has few reasons to make wholesale changes after another competitive display. Ben Old and Francis de Vries offer alternatives at full-back, but New Zealand are expected to stick with the side that pushed Egypt for long spells.

Verdict

This should be one of the more entertaining final-day fixtures. New Zealand have started both matches aggressively and will sense that Belgium have looked vulnerable whenever opponents have run directly at them. However, opening up against a squad packed with attacking talent carries obvious risks.

Belgium have not been convincing, but knockout football has often begun with performances like these before momentum builds. With qualification on the line, expect Garcia’s side to finally produce their most complete display of the tournament.

Tip: Belgium to win.