All Whites forward Eli Just has expressed confidence ahead of the team’s upcoming FIFA World Cup match against Belgium. The All Whites need a victory to advance to the knockout rounds for the first time and extend their presence in North America. Just, who scored two goals in the opening match against Iran, noted that the team has “nothing to lose” in the decisive fixture.
Belgium, currently ranked tenth globally and led by captain Kevin De Bruyne, also requires a win to avoid an early exit from the tournament. Just acknowledged that Belgium‘s two draws so far might make them more dangerous opponents. Despite recent results, including draws against Iran and a loss to Egypt, leaving New Zealand at the bottom of Group G, Just maintains that belief within the squad is high.
Just highlighted the team’s strong play, particularly the three goals scored during the tour, as positive points. He also acknowledged the defensive challenges posed by Belgium‘s dangerous players but affirmed the team’s positive and confident approach to the game. Midfielder Joe Bell echoed this sentiment, stating that it is “all to play for” in the must-win encounter.
Team confidence despite challenges
The All Whites‘ journey in the tournament has seen them concede leads in both their matches. Against Egypt, they were leading at halftime but ultimately lost 3-1. Bell noted the team’s disappointment following the loss but emphasised the need to move forward and focus on the upcoming match. He described the situation as “knockout football,” which is what the team came to play.
Belgium has also had a challenging start to the tournament, with a 1-1 draw against Egypt and a 0-0 draw against Iran. These results occurred in matches where Belgium was considered the favourite. Bell recognised Belgium‘s difficult position and the quality of their players, including Youri Tielemans, Jérémy Doku, Romelu Lukaku, and Leandro Trossard, who are capable of creating significant problems for New Zealand.
Bell stressed the importance of adapting to the intensity of World Cup football, noting that small mistakes can be exploited by opponents. He believes the team can progress their strengths, having frustrated both Iran and Egypt in the first halves of their respective games. The team’s focus remains on playing their own style of football and giving their best effort.
Just’s personal and team aspirations
Eli Just made history by becoming the first All White to score two goals in a World Cup match during the opening game against Iran in Los Angeles. While proud of this achievement, Just hopes his record will be surpassed as New Zealand continues to participate in future World Cups. He reflected on the difficulty and luck required to achieve such a feat, something he did not fully comprehend as a child.
All Whites coach Darren Bazeley believes Just’s performances could attract attention from various club sides. However, Just’s immediate focus remains on his club, Motherwell, in the Scottish Premiership. He is looking forward to returning to his club, especially with a new coach and upcoming fixtures for Conference League qualification. Just mentioned that Motherwell has been supportive and proud of his participation in the World Cup, where he represents the club as its sole member playing in the tournament.
Just is enjoying the World Cup experience with teammates, many of whom he has played with since the under-17s, under-20s, and Olympics. He described the team environment as a “taste of home” due to the shared Kiwi background and strong camaraderie. Just expressed excitement rather than pressure for the final Group G game in Vancouver, looking forward to singing the anthem and playing with everything on the line.
The team is eager to play, with Just stating that everyone would have wanted to play the day after the Egypt game, highlighting the cool feeling of having everything to play for in the upcoming match.
Source: rnz.co.nz
