Belgium finally found top gear at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, producing a ruthless 5-1 victory over New Zealand to book their place in the Round of 32.
After frustrating draws against Egypt and Iran, Rudi Garcia’s side delivered the attacking display supporters had been waiting for, with Leandro Trossard stealing the headlines through a superb brace before Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers completed an emphatic victory.
The dominant performance not only secured qualification but also suggested Belgium may have arrived at the tournament just when it matters most.
Belgium Finally Find Their Rhythm
With qualification still hanging in the balance before kick-off, Belgium wasted no time taking control.
The Red Devils dominated possession from the opening whistle and consistently forced New Zealand onto the back foot.
Trossard thought he had opened the scoring earlier in the match before a penalty decision was overturned, but the Arsenal winger quickly made amends by finding the breakthrough in the 28th minute.
Only five minutes into the second half, he doubled Belgium’s advantage with another composed finish, setting the platform for a convincing victory.
Late goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers completed one of Belgium’s most complete World Cup performances in recent years.
Match Statistics
| Category | New Zealand | Belgium |
|---|---|---|
| Result | 1 | 5 |
| Goals | 1 | 5 |
| Group Position | Eliminated | Qualified |
| Player of the Match | — | Leandro Trossard |
Trossard Steps Out of the Shadows
Belgium’s established stars have dominated headlines for more than a decade, but this performance felt like the beginning of a new chapter.
Trossard had already shown encouraging signs in Belgium’s opening matches despite failing to register a goal or assist. His creativity against Egypt and Iran hinted that a breakthrough was coming.
Against New Zealand, everything clicked.
Wearing Belgium’s famous number 10 shirt once worn by Eden Hazard, Trossard scored twice to become the first Belgian wearing that iconic jersey since Hazard’s famous brace against Tunisia at the 2018 World Cup.
His intelligent movement, calm finishing and constant attacking threat demonstrated why he could become Belgium’s key player during the knockout rounds.
Belgium Head Into Knockout Stage With Confidence
Belgium entered the tournament with questions surrounding an ageing squad led by Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku.
While both veterans once again contributed on the scoresheet, the emergence of Trossard as Belgium’s primary attacking spark offers Rudi Garcia another major weapon.
With momentum finally on their side, the Red Devils will believe they can trouble any opponent if they reproduce this level of performance.
New Zealand, meanwhile, exit the tournament after a spirited campaign but simply could not cope with Belgium’s attacking quality on the decisive final matchday.
Player of the Match
⭐ Leandro Trossard (Belgium)
The Arsenal winger delivered his finest international performance, scoring twice while constantly creating danger throughout the match. His display confirmed his growing importance to Belgium as they prepare for the knockout rounds.
What Happens Next?
Belgium advance to the Round of 32 with renewed confidence after producing their biggest victory of the tournament.
New Zealand’s World Cup journey comes to an end, while Belgium now shift their focus toward the knockout stage, where far tougher challenges await.
Final Verdict
Belgium finally produced the performance many expected before the tournament began.
With Trossard leading the attack and experienced stars like De Bruyne and Lukaku still making decisive contributions, the Red Devils head into the knockout rounds looking far more dangerous than they did just a few days ago.
If this display is a sign of what’s to come, Belgium could become one of the tournament’s most dangerous dark horses.
