Belgium secured a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand on Friday in Vancouver, booking their place in the World Cup knockout rounds and finishing atop Group G. The win was Belgium's first of the tournament, propelling them into the last 32 in first place ahead of Egypt on goal difference.
Belgium's First-Half Dominance
Belgium controlled the first half, creating early chances. Leandro Trossard's angled shot cannoned off the inside of the post and was cleared off the line by Tyler Binden. Moments later, referee Adham Mohammad awarded a penalty after Trossard's shot hit the arm of defender Finn Surman, but VAR overturned the decision.
Belgium broke through shortly after when Trossard bundled home from close range following Kevin De Bruyne's corner, which caused chaos in the six-yard box.
Trossard's Second and De Bruyne's Elegant Finish
Trossard made the game safe five minutes into the second half, controlling a rebound and volleying past New Zealand goalkeeper Max Crocombe at the near post. De Bruyne then added a third in the 66th minute with a low finish, putting Belgium ahead of Egypt on goal difference.
New Zealand's Consolation and Belgium's Late Response
New Zealand pulled one back when Elijah Just volleyed home from the edge of the area, which briefly dropped Belgium to second place. However, Romelu Lukaku headed in Belgium's fourth in the 86th minute, just a minute after coming on as a substitute, restoring their top spot. Alexis Saelemaekers completed the scoring with a shot from the edge of the area.
Group G Final Standings
Egypt finished as runners-up after a 1-1 draw with Iran in Seattle, while Iran placed third. Belgium's goal difference proved decisive in securing first place.
