Trossard shines as Belgium outclass New Zealand in group clash

In the World Cup group match against New Zealand, Belgium secured a dominant victory thanks to Leandro Trossard's two goals and a late strike from Romelu Lukaku after coming off the bench, while Thibaut Courtois inadvertently set up New Zealand's lone reply. Belgium pressed from the opening whistle, yet only broke the deadlock in the first half when Trossard headed Kevin De Bruyne's corner into the net. Earlier chances fell to De Ketelaere, Vanaken, Doku and Theate, but none found the target. New Zealand entered the game as clear underdogs, a David‑versus‑Goliath scenario that quickly dissolved as the Rode Duivels controlled possession. Their defensive lapses allowed Belgium to create a basket of opportunities throughout the first half.

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Ten minutes into the second half, Trossard added his second of the evening, first being blocked and then finishing cleanly inside the box. Kevin De Bruyne later unleashed a powerful shot that pushed the score to 3‑0. Thibaut Courtois inadvertently passed the ball to New Zealand forward Just, who capitalised to make it 1‑4. Romelu Lukaku, who had entered as a substitute, completed his brace by finding the net a minute later. New Zealand coach Raskin was unable to halt the Belgian onslaught despite the late reply.

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Even with New Zealand's consolation, Belgium's win ensured they topped the group. A simultaneous Egypt‑Iran draw would have left Belgium first even if they had scored only two goals. Coach Roberto Garcia echoed the sentiment after ten minutes of the second half, noting Trossard's influence on the game. He also suggested giving more minutes to Fernandez‑Pardo, who can exploit space without always holding the ball.