Belgium produced their best performance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, defeating New Zealand 5-1 as Leandro Trossard scored twice and Kevin De Bruyne inspired the Red Devils to secure top spot in Group G and a place in the Round of 32.
Belgium Crush New Zealand 5-1 to Seal Top Spot in Group G
Belgium delivered their finest display of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage with a commanding 5-1 victory over New Zealand at BC Place in Vancouver. Inspired by a brilliant brace from Leandro Trossard and further goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers, the Red Devils secured first place in Group G and advanced confidently into the Round of 32.
After failing to convince in their opening two matches, Belgium entered the final group fixture knowing that victory would guarantee qualification regardless of results elsewhere. With Egypt drawing against Iran, Rudi Garcia’s side left nothing to chance by producing an attacking masterclass that showcased the quality many expected before the tournament began.
Belgium Dominate from the Opening Whistle
Belgium wasted little time asserting themselves. Their midfield controlled possession while the attacking trio consistently stretched New Zealand’s defensive line.
The pressure quickly mounted as Belgium created several dangerous chances. Leandro Trossard was at the heart of nearly every attacking move, constantly finding space and forcing New Zealand goalkeeper Max Crocombe into important saves.
The Arsenal winger thought he had earned a penalty after his effort struck Finn Surman’s arm inside the penalty area. Initially, the referee pointed to the spot, but after consulting VAR, the decision was overturned, much to Belgium’s frustration.
Despite the setback, Belgium maintained complete control of the match.
Trossard Opens the Floodgates
Belgium finally broke the deadlock in the 28th minute.
Following a chaotic scramble inside the six-yard box, Leandro Trossard reacted quickest to fire home from close range, giving Belgium a deserved lead after dominating possession throughout the opening half.
New Zealand struggled to create opportunities and remarkably failed to register a single shot before halftime. Belgium’s defensive organization ensured goalkeeper Koen Casteels enjoyed one of his quietest first halves of the tournament.
Second Half Brings More Goalshttps://www.espn.com/soccer/
Belgium emerged after the break with the same attacking intensity.
Only five minutes into the second half, Trossard struck again. After Max Crocombe denied his initial attempt, the winger reacted brilliantly, producing an acrobatic finish to score his second goal of the evening.
His outstanding performance nearly included an assist moments later when he played an inch-perfect through ball to substitute Matias Fernandez-Pardo. Unfortunately for Belgium, the youngster dragged his effort wide of the target.
The third goal soon followed.
Receiving possession just outside the penalty area after another excellent attacking move initiated by Trossard, captain Kevin De Bruyne unleashed a powerful low strike into the bottom corner, leaving Crocombe with no chance.
It was a goal worthy of one of football’s greatest midfielders and effectively ended any hopes of a New Zealand comeback.
Elijah Just Gives New Zealand Hope
Despite Belgium’s dominance, New Zealand refused to give up.https://www.fifa.com
Forward Elijah Just found the net in the 84th minute, scoring his third goal of the tournament. His well-taken finish provided the All Whites with a deserved consolation and briefly altered the Group G standings.
For a short period, Belgium slipped from first place due to the changing goal difference calculations.
However, the Red Devils responded almost immediately.
Lukaku and Saelemaekers Finish the Job
Romelu Lukaku restored Belgium’s three-goal advantage just two minutes after New Zealand scored.
The experienced striker rose highest inside the penalty area to power home an unstoppable header, reminding everyone why he remains Belgium’s all-time leading scorer.
Deep into stoppage time, Lukaku turned provider.https://www.uefa.com
The veteran forward delivered an excellent pass to Alexis Saelemaekers, who calmly finished with the final kick of the match to complete an emphatic 5-1 victory.
The late goal ensured Belgium finished comfortably on top of Group G.
Trossard Steals the Spotlight
Although Belgium produced several standout performances, Leandro Trossard deservedly claimed the spotlight.
His two goals, intelligent movement, and relentless pressing troubled New Zealand throughout the contest. Beyond scoring, he created numerous opportunities for teammates and played a vital role in Belgium’s attacking rhythm.
After relatively quiet performances earlier in the tournament, this display could mark the beginning of an impressive World Cup campaign for the Arsenal star.
His partnership with Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku looked increasingly dangerous as the match progressed, giving Belgium every reason to believe they can challenge for the trophy.
Tactical Improvement Under Garcia
Belgium also demonstrated noticeable tactical improvements under Rudi Garcia.
The midfield pressed aggressively, recovered possession quickly, and transitioned rapidly into attack. Defensively, Belgium remained compact for most of the game, limiting New Zealand to very few meaningful chances.
The attacking full-backs provided width while De Bruyne orchestrated play from central areas, allowing Trossard and Lukaku to exploit spaces behind the defense.
If Belgium can maintain this level of performance, they will become one of the most dangerous teams entering the knockout rounds.
What the Result Means
The comprehensive victory guarantees Belgium top spot in Group G and sends them confidently into the Round of 32.
For New Zealand, the defeat ends a difficult evening despite Elijah Just’s encouraging goal. Although they struggled against Belgium’s quality, there were moments of determination that will give the squad positives to build upon.
Belgium, meanwhile, appear to have found their rhythm at exactly the right moment. After an inconsistent start to the competition, the Red Devils finally displayed the attacking football fans expected before the tournament began.
With stars such as Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Leandro Trossard hitting top form, Belgium now enter the knockout stage full of confidence and looking capable of making a deep run toward World Cup glory.
