Belgium explode past New Zealand to claim Group G crown and knockout place

Belgium finally found their breakthrough at the World Cup, producing a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand to secure a place in the knockout rounds and finish top of Group G.

After an uneven start to the tournament, the Red Devils delivered their most complete performance when it mattered most, overwhelming New Zealand with attacking quality and late-match composure.

A brilliant attacking display from Leandro Trossard, who scored twice, combined with goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers, pushed Belgium into the last 32.

The victory placed Belgium first in the group ahead of Egypt on goal difference.

Trossard sparks Belgium’s early assault

Belgium immediately took control, forcing New Zealand into a defensive battle from the opening minutes.

Trossard nearly opened the scoring early when his angled strike struck the inside of the post before defender Tyler Binden reacted quickly to clear the danger off the line.

The pressure continued.

Belgium thought they had another opportunity when referee Adham Mohammad awarded a penalty after Trossard’s shot struck the arm of New Zealand defender Finn Surman.

However, the decision was reviewed by VAR.

After checking the monitor, Mohammad overturned the call, giving New Zealand a brief escape.

Their relief lasted only moments.

First goal breaks New Zealand’s resistance

Belgium eventually found the breakthrough through the same player who had caused problems all afternoon.

A De Bruyne corner created chaos inside the six-yard box, and Trossard reacted fastest, forcing the ball over the line from close range to give Belgium the lead.

The goal settled Belgium’s nerves and shifted the match firmly in their favor.

New Zealand struggled to contain the Red Devils’ movement, and Belgium entered halftime with control of the contest.

Second-half surge seals Belgium’s progression

Belgium wasted little time after the restart.

Five minutes into the second half, Trossard struck again, collecting a rebound in a crowded penalty area before firing past goalkeeper Max Crocombe at the near post.

The second goal transformed the match from a contest into a celebration.

De Bruyne then added Belgium’s third in the 66th minute, calmly sliding a low finish into the net.

That goal proved especially important because it moved Belgium above Egypt in the group standings on goal difference.

Late twist creates brief concern

Just when Belgium appeared completely comfortable, New Zealand found a way back.

Elijah Just produced a superb volley from the edge of the area, cutting the deficit to 3-1 and briefly creating uncertainty.

The goal had major implications.

At that moment, Belgium’s position at the top of the group was threatened, with the result potentially pushing them into second place.

But Belgium responded like an experienced tournament team.

Lukaku and Saelemaekers finish the job

Belgium restored their advantage in dramatic fashion.

Lukaku entered as a substitute and needed only one minute to make his impact, heading home with his first touch to put Belgium back on top of the group.

Saelemaekers then completed the scoring, adding a fifth goal with a composed finish from outside the penalty area.

The final whistle confirmed Belgium’s statement victory.

Belgium move forward with confidence

Egypt claimed second place after drawing 1-1 with Iran in Seattle, while Iran finished third and remained in contention as a possible best third-place qualifier.

For Belgium, however, the message was clear.

The Red Devils arrived in Vancouver needing a result, and they delivered with authority.

After overcoming early doubts, Belgium enter the knockout stage as Group G winners, carrying renewed belief that their tournament campaign is only beginning.