Belgium vs New Zealand Women Result & Score: Red Panthers Thrash Black Sticks 5-2 in Pool C Opener at Belfius Arena

Co-hosts Belgium Women (Red Panthers) put on a Masterclass attacking display to defeat New Zealand (Vantage Black Sticks) 5–2 in their high-scoring FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 Pool C opener at Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre (Boulevard de l'Europe 50, 1300 Wavre, Walloon Brabant, Belgium) on Sunday evening, August 16, 2026.

What was the final score in Belgium vs New Zealand Women?

Final Score: Belgium 5 – 2 New Zealand (Full Time: 60 minutes)

• 08' ⚽ Goal (Belgium): Charlotte Englebert — Forehand strike into top netting off a rapid circle entry.
• 19' ⚽ Goal (Belgium): Stephanie Vanden Borre — Drag-flick penalty corner low into bottom right corner.
• 24' ⚽ Goal (New Zealand): Hope Ralph — Rebound goal off penalty corner flick.
• 33' ⚽ Goal (Belgium): Michelle Struijk — Deflection inside the 5-meter mark.
• 41' ⚽ Goal (Belgium): Charlotte Englebert — Reverse-stick tomhawk strike into upper netting.
• 50' ⚽ Goal (New Zealand): Olivia Shannon — Field goal finish past Belgian goalkeeper Aisling D'Hooghe.
• 54' ⚽ Goal (Belgium): Stephanie Vanden Borre — Rocket drag-flick penalty corner sealing the 5-2 scoreline.

Key Tactical Breakdown & Pool C Standings Impact

Raoul Ehren's side commanded 58% ball possession, firing 12 shots on target and generating 7 penalty corners with a 42.8% conversion rate. Belgium claim provisional top spot in Women's Pool C. Track updated standings on our Points Table Page.

Spectator Transit Notice for Belfius Arena (1300 Wavre)

Spectators attending matches in Wavre (postal code 1300) are advised to board official TEC shuttle buses operating every 10 minutes from Wavre railway station. On-street residential parking is strictly regulated.

When is the next match?

Check complete upcoming match schedules and pushback times on our Official Tournament Schedule.