New Zealand produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 World Cup, defeating Belgium 2-1 in Group G on Sunday night in Doha. The All Whites, ranked 104th in the world, came from behind to beat the third-ranked Red Devils, with captain Chris Wood scoring the winner in the 87th minute.
Match Summary
Belgium took the lead in the 12th minute through Kevin De Bruyne, who curled a free kick into the top corner. However, New Zealand equalised just before half-time when Wood headed in a cross from Ryan Thomas. The second half was a tense affair, with Belgium dominating possession but failing to convert chances. In the 87th minute, Wood latched onto a long ball from goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic and slotted past Thibaut Courtois to seal the victory.
Impact on Group G
The result throws Group G wide open. Belgium remain top with three points from two matches, but New Zealand now have four points, while Croatia and Saudi Arabia have one each. The All Whites face Croatia in their final group match, needing a draw to advance to the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
"It's a dream come true," said Wood after the match. "We believed we could do it, and we showed the world what we're capable of." Belgium coach Roberto Martinez admitted his side were second best: "We had chances but didn't take them. New Zealand deserved the win."
