Belgium secured their place in the World Cup knockout stages as Group G winners with a commanding 5-1 victory over New Zealand, Leandro Trossard’s brace inspiring the Red Devils’ first win of the tournament.
Rudi Garcia’s side entered the final group fixture needing a victory to guarantee progression, and they delivered in emphatic fashion against the lowest ranked team in the competition. The result, combined with Egypt’s draw against Iran, saw Belgium top the group on goal difference and set up a Round of 32 clash in Seattle against one of the third placed finishers from Groups A, E, H, I or J.
Dominance from the outset
Belgium were utterly dominant from the first whistle, registering 35 shots against a New Zealand side that had been eliminated before kick off. The breakthrough arrived in the 28th minute when Trossard reacted quickest at a corner, turning the ball home from close range.
The Arsenal forward doubled the lead five minutes into the second half with a moment of individual quality, controlling a lofted pass on his chest before volleying past the helpless New Zealand goalkeeper.
Kevin De Bruyne added a third with a superb low strike from outside the box, the Manchester City midfielder’s finish effectively securing top spot in the group as Egypt were being held by Iran.
Lukaku makes instant impact
Motherwell striker Elijah Just pulled one back for New Zealand in the 84th minute with a consolation effort that briefly threatened to push Belgium into the runners up position. The reprieve lasted barely a minute.
Romelu Lukaku, introduced as a substitute just moments before, headed home 64 seconds after entering the field to restore Belgium’s three goal cushion. Alexis Saelemaekers completed the scoring in added time to seal a resounding victory.
Group G final standings
Belgium finished top of Group G with five points, level with Egypt but with a superior goal difference. Iran, who drew all three of their matches, finished third with three points, while New Zealand propped up the group with a solitary point.
The Red Devils’ progression was achieved despite a stuttering start to the tournament, with draws against Iran and Egypt having left their qualification in the balance. The victory over New Zealand ensured Garcia’s side found their rhythm at the crucial moment, setting up a knockout tie that offers a favourable path into the latter stages.
