For Belgium, there is no alternative left against New Zealand

Belgium avoided a national nightmare in Vancouver on Saturday, securing a 5-1 victory over New Zealand that confirmed their place in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup as group winners. Leandro Trossard opened the scoring after 28 minutes, doubling the lead before half-time through another strike. Kevin De Bruyne added a third after the break, with Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers completing the rout in stoppage time. The win erased weeks of doubt about Belgium’s ability to deliver when it mattered most. A draw between Egypt and Iran meant Belgium needed a convincing result to avoid becoming the tournament’s laughingstock. Garcia’s side responded emphatically, dominating possession and creating 15 chances in the first half alone. Trossard ended a 406-minute World Cup goal drought with a clinical finish from a messy corner. His second goal, just after the break, effectively ended the contest. De Bruyne, restored to his creative best, added the third with a low drive past the stranded goalkeeper. The rout was completed by Lukaku’s first touch after coming off the bench, and Saelemaekers’ late strike. The substitutions of Trossard and De Bruyne for Saelemaekers and Onana shifted the game’s momentum decisively in Belgium’s favour. Belgium’s path to the knockout stages now leads to Seattle, where they will face one of the best third-placed teams. The identity of that opponent remains unknown, but the relief in Vancouver was palpable. The national nightmare had been avoided.

Trossard’s five-goal masterclass seals Belgium’s group win in Seattle

Rudi Garcia’s side had been under intense scrutiny after two unconvincing draws. The pressure to win was immense, with even a draw risking elimination. The statement against New Zealand silenced critics and restored belief. Trossard’s opener came after a VAR review overturned a penalty claim for a handball on the edge of the box. The decision sparked debate, but the Belgian forward made no mistake when the chance finally arrived. His composure under pressure was decisive. De Bruyne’s third goal was a masterclass in timing and technique. The midfielder controlled a loose ball, shifted his weight, and fired low into the corner. The celebration was immediate—badge kiss included. The Belgian engine was running again.

Trossard’s double and VAR’s cruel twist in Belgium’s rout of New Zealand

Lukaku’s introduction changed the game’s dynamics. His first touch led to the fourth, a nod to his predatory instincts. Saelemaekers, another substitute, capped the rout with a composed finish in stoppage time. The bench had delivered when needed most. The victory sets up a clash with an unpredictable third-placed team in the next round. Belgium’s World Cup can now truly begin, with momentum and confidence restored.