Raskin denies Bologna talks as Belgium prepares for NZ clash

Midfielder Nicolas Raskin has publicly denied any ongoing transfer talks with Italian club Bologna, confirming that no deal is in place while Belgium prepares for its World Cup group match against New Zealand in Vancouver. The game is scheduled for Friday at 1 am Belgian time, with Zeno Debast the sole absentee. Dutch media reported that midfielder Nicolas Raskin was in negotiations with Italian club Bologna, but the player confirmed that no agreement exists. Raskin also said he will consider a move beyond Celtic Glasgow only after the World Cup. Germany secured the group victory at the World Cup and made only two substitutions, indicating no extensive rotation. The two changes were mandatory rather than tactical.

Belgium clinches Group G lead as New Zealand struggle in Vancouver

Defender Marc Schlötterbeck is out for the remainder of the tournament, while striker Brown dealt with a minor discomfort. Newcomers Antonio Rüdiger and Leroy Raum were deployed as the fresh faces. "There are already more teams that have become worse than those that have improved because of too much rotation in a third match that no longer matters for progression," said Gert Verheyen. The comment referred to the limited changes made by the German coach.

Leandro Trossard's masterclass lifts Belgium past New Zealand

The Belgian squad travelled from Seattle to Vancouver, with Jeremy Doku joining the training while Zeno Debast remained the only absentee. Coach Rudi Garcia and captain Brandon Mechele addressed the media before the upcoming clash with New Zealand, where Belgium sit on four points from six and aim for a group win.