New Zealand conceded a 190-run defeat to South Africa on Wednesday.
The Kiwis are fourth in World Cup standings with 8 points from 7 games.
The big margin of defeat against Proteas brought down New Zealand’s Net Run Rate (NRR) to 0.484.
Despite the big loss, Tom Latham and men are alive in hunt for a semi-final spot.
Victories in the remaining two games can help them reach semi-finals.
But a loss to Pakistan can jeopardise their chances of qualifying.
A defeat by 84 or more runs, during a run chase of 301, will keep Kiwis behind Pakistan in terms of NRR.
What if New Zealand fails to beat Pakistan?
Their qualification will have to depend on NRR.
In their last league stage fixture, New Zealand will face Sri Lanka.