Belgium and Netherlands face defensive challenges in World Cup matches

Belgium entered its final Group G match against New Zealand needing a win to stay in the tournament. Coach Rudi Garcia made five changes, including the return of Jérémy Doku after his child's birth, and added Arthur Theate at centre‑back. The tactical shift emphasized more accessible underlaps and deeper double pivot play, improving tempo and allowing Belgium to press higher against New Zealand.

The Netherlands finished top of Group F with seven points but have shown defensive frailties, conceding four goals in three games and yet to keep a clean sheet. Despite scoring ten goals, full‑backs have often pushed high, leaving space for counter‑attacks. Ahead of their last‑32 clash with Morocco, analysts warn that the Dutch back line could be the team's undoing, especially against a Moroccan side noted for rapid transitions and the pace of full‑back Achraf Hakimi.