By Blessing Nweke
Belgium produced its best performance of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, defeating New Zealand 5-1 to secure first place in Group G and book a place in the knockout stage.
After opening the tournament with disappointing draws against Egypt and Iran, the Red Devils responded emphatically when it mattered most. Leandro Trossard starred with two goals, while Kevin De Bruyne orchestrated the attack with a goal and two assists. Substitute Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers also found the net in an impressive display that restored Belgium’s status as a title contender.
Trossard opened the scoring before doubling Belgium’s advantage shortly after halftime. De Bruyne extended the lead with a well-taken finish, capping another influential performance from the veteran midfielder. New Zealand briefly threatened a comeback when Elijah Just scored in the 84th minute, but Lukaku responded almost immediately before Saelemaekers added a fifth goal in stoppage time to complete the rout.
The victory ensured Belgium finished top of Group G on goal difference after Egypt drew 1-1 with Iran in the group’s other match. Belgium and Egypt both ended with five points, but the Red Devils claimed first place thanks to their superior goal difference. Belgium will now face one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams in the Round of 32.
The match also brought individual milestones. Lukaku became Belgium’s all-time leading World Cup scorer with six goals, while the 34-year-old De Bruyne became the country’s oldest player to score at a World Cup. Coach Rudi Garcia praised his experienced leaders for guiding the team through a must-win encounter after a sluggish start to the tournament.
New Zealand, meanwhile, exited the competition with one point from three matches but earned praise from coach Darren Bazeley for the team’s commitment and determination throughout the tournament.
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