+18 | Commercial Content | T&C's Apply | Play Responsibly | Publishing Principles

New Zealand

New Zealand Overview

10 stars of the World Cup set for summer transfers

The World Cup has a remarkable ability to completely alter the course of careers. There is no grander stage in the game, meaning impressive performances garner the kind of acclaim and attention that is simply not possible in any other arena. Consequently, the transfer market tends to go wild in and around World Cups, as clubs scramble to snap up previously hidden gems or suddenly established stars.

Messi Mbappe Haaland World Cup Golden boot 16:9

World Cup Golden Boot standings: Mbappe leads Messi & Kane

The 2026 World Cup is well underway and so is the race for the prestigious Golden Boot - the award given to the tournament's top scorer. There's a long and winding road to be navigated as 48 nations battle for the top prize, but which star will take home the illustrious award? Here, GOAL tracks the tournament's most prolific stars.

Spain v Cabo Verde: Group H - FIFA World Cup 2026

How have debutant teams performed at the FIFA World Cup?

Four nations made debuts at the 2026 World Cup, with Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan gracing the grandest stage in international football for the first time. It is the tournament with the most newcomers since 2006 and Cape Verde have achieved the feat of ending a 16-year wait for a debutant to reach the knockout stages, with the African nation to face Lionel Messi's Argentina on Friday.

USA WC26 SEATTLE SOCCER RED DEVILS EGYPT D-1

'Not up to the task' - KDB bemoans Belgium's 'silly mistakes'

Kevin De Bruyne has issued a stark warning to his Belgium team-mates, admitting the squad has failed to meet expectations during a stuttering World Cup campaign. The Red Devils face the very real prospect of a group-stage exit after failing to win either of their opening two fixtures in North America.

New Zealand vs Belgium FIFA World Cup 2026 preview

Comprehensive match preview of New Zealand vs Belgium at World Cup 2026. We talk tactics, team news and more.

USA WC26 SEATTLE SOCCER RED DEVILS FRIDAY

Doku is a father! Belgium star celebrates birth of first child

Manchester City and Belgium winger Jeremy Doku has become a father for the first time after welcoming a baby boy during the World Cup. The 24-year-old was granted special leave from the Red Devils' camp in the United States to travel to London for the birth of his son.