Belgium produced a commanding performance to defeat New Zealand 5-1 on Friday, sealing qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 as Group G winners after edging Egypt on goal difference.
A brace from Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard, along with goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers, ensured the Red Devils registered their first victory of the tournament in style at Vancouver.
The result saw Belgium finish level on points with Egypt but ahead on goal difference. Egypt also progressed to the knockout stage after securing a 1-1 draw against Iran in Seattle, while Iran ended their campaign in third place and New Zealand bowed out at the bottom of the group.
Belgium Dominate First Half
Belgium controlled proceedings from the opening whistle and nearly broke the deadlock early when Trossard’s angled effort struck the inside of the post before New Zealand defender Tyler Binden cleared the ball off the line.
The Red Devils were then awarded a penalty after Trossard’s shot appeared to strike the arm of defender Finn Surman inside the box. However, after a VAR review, Jordanian referee Adham Mohammad overturned his original decision, handing New Zealand a temporary reprieve.
Belgium eventually found the breakthrough shortly afterwards. Kevin De Bruyne’s corner created confusion inside the six-yard box, allowing Trossard to react quickest and bundle the ball into the net from close range.
Trossard Brace Puts Belgium In Control
Belgium doubled their advantage just five minutes into the second half. Trossard controlled a loose ball inside a crowded penalty area before firing a superb volley beyond goalkeeper Max Crocombe at the near post.
The Arsenal star’s second goal firmly established Belgium’s dominance as New Zealand struggled to create meaningful opportunities.
De Bruyne Goal Sends Belgium Top
Captain Kevin De Bruyne added Belgium’s third goal in the 66th minute with a composed low finish after a well-worked move.
The strike proved crucial as it temporarily lifted Belgium above Egypt to the top of Group G on goal difference, strengthening their chances of securing a more favourable draw in the knockout rounds.
New Zealand Fight Back Briefly
New Zealand managed to reduce the deficit when Elijah Just produced a fine volley from the edge of the area to make it 3-1.
The goal briefly altered the group standings, pushing Belgium behind Egypt on goal difference and adding late drama to the contest.
Lukaku And Saelemaekers Complete Rout
Belgium quickly restored their position at the top of the group through substitute Romelu Lukaku, who marked his return with a goal just one minute after coming off the bench. The striker headed home in the 86th minute with his very first touch of the match.
Alexis Saelemaekers then completed the scoring in stoppage time, firing home from outside the penalty area to wrap up an emphatic 5-1 victory.
The convincing win ensured Belgium advanced to the Round of 32 as Group G winners, while Egypt also progressed in second place. Iran finished third, and New Zealand exited the tournament after failing to collect a point.