What's at stake

A halftime lead decides who carries momentum into the second half and who must chase a comeback.

The 45‑minute score changes coaches' tactical urgency, substitution plans, and the settlement for live bets on the three possible halftime outcomes.

Who's in play

Belgium's starting XI and coach set the tone for early attacking pressure.

New Zealand's midfield and defense determine whether they can absorb that pressure and threaten on counters, while the referee and goalkeepers influence how tight the halftime scoreline stays.

What drives it

Opening formation, pressing intensity, and set‑piece effectiveness drive which team is ahead at halftime.

Early clinical finishes, defensive errors, yellow cards, and any injuries or substitutions also shift the likelihood of a Belgium lead, New Zealand lead, or a draw.

What to watch

Minutes 10–25 often reveal whether possession turns into clear chances or New Zealand finds space on counters.

Track any early bookings, a goalkeeper save or conceded penalty, and substitutions near halftime; those events most often flip expected halftime outcomes.