FIFA World Cup 2026: Belgium storm into knockout stage with 5-1 win over New Zealand

VANCOUVER – Belgium secured a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 after registering a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand in their final Group G match in Vancouver. Requiring a win to guarantee qualification, Belgium produced an impressive attacking display from the opening whistle. Leandro Trossard broke the deadlock in the 28th minute before doubling his tally five minutes into the second half to put his side firmly in control. Captain Kevin De Bruyne extended Belgium’s lead in the 66th minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area, making it 3-0. New Zealand pulled one goal back through Elijah Just, but Belgium quickly restored their three-goal advantage as substitute Romelu Lukaku found the net shortly after coming on. Alexis Saelemaekers completed the scoring in stoppage time, sealing an emphatic 5-1 victory and confirming Belgium’s place in the knockout stage. The result, combined with the 1-1 draw between Egypt and Iran, ensured Belgium finished top of Group G on goal difference. Belgium will now face one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams in the Round of 32, while New Zealand’s World Cup campaign came to an end after finishing the group stage with just one point. Iran’s FIFA World Cup 2026 hopes hang in balance after dramatic draw with Egypt