All Whites winger Eli Just says he “would've never expected to score three goals” at his first FIFA World Cup, despite New Zealand’s campaign ending in a heavy 5-1 defeat to Belgium.
Just capped off an impressive tournament with a stunning late volley against Belgium in Vancouver, adding to the historic brace he scored against Iran in New Zealand’s opening group match.
“I think we kept it close in the first half, but when the game opened up they showed the quality,” Just said after the defeat.
Highlights: Just's thunderous goal as NZ outclassed by Belgium - Watch on TVNZ+
While disappointed with the result, the 26-year-old said representing New Zealand on football’s biggest stage had been an "incredible" experience.
“Overall, I think we gave ourselves a good chance. We’ll probably look back at the first two games as missed opportunities,” he said.
“These are the games that everyone wants to play growing up. So yeah, I never would’ve expected to score three goals.”
The No. 11 volleyed the ball into the top corner to secure his third goal of the World Cup. (Source: TVNZ)
Belgium dominated much of Saturday’s contest at BC Place, with Leandro Trossard opening the scoring before adding his second shortly after halftime.
Kevin De Bruyne extended the lead before Just gave New Zealand fans something to cheer for, lashing home a superb volley from a corner in the 84th minute for his third goal of the tournament.
Romelu Lukaku restored Belgium’s four-goal advantage just two minutes later before Alexis Saelemaekers added a fifth in stoppage time to seal a convincing victory and top spot in Group G.
The result ends New Zealand’s World Cup campaign after finishing with one point from three matches.
Despite the disappointing finish, the All Whites showed plenty of promise during the tournament, earning a 2-2 draw against Iran in their opening match thanks to Just’s double before losing 3-1 to Egypt.
Belgium will now advance to the knockout stages, while the All Whites head home with Just emerging as one of the breakout performers of New Zealand’s campaign.
Watch all matches at the World Cup with an event pass on TVNZ+
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