Leandro Trossard was instrumental in Belgium’s commanding 5-1 victory over New Zealand, propelling the team into the knockout rounds of the World Cup. With this win, Belgium secured the top position in Group G, setting up a clash against one of the eight best third-placed teams in the upcoming knockout stage.
The match saw Belgium initially struggle, having a penalty decision overturned following a VAR review. However, the breakthrough came in the 28th minute when Kevin De Bruyne’s corner kick deflected off New Zealand defender Tim Payne, allowing Trossard to score from close range.
Five minutes into the second half, Trossard struck again, capitalizing on a precise pass from De Bruyne and firing the ball home after his first attempt was blocked. De Bruyne then added to the scoreline in the 66th minute, netting a goal from the edge of the box.
New Zealand’s Elijah Just managed to score a late consolation goal, but Belgium continued to assert their dominance. Substitutes Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers added two more goals to secure a decisive victory, ensuring Belgium finished first in their group ahead of Egypt.
- World Cup 2026
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