World Cup 2026: Belgium Top Group G, Eliminate New Zealand

Belgium secured top spot in Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating New Zealand 5-1 in an entertaining encounter at BC Place in Vancouver, eliminating the Oceania side from the tournament.

The Red Devils controlled the match from the opening whistle and produced an impressive attacking display to finish the group stage on a high.

Belgium took the lead in the 28th minute through Leandro Trossard after New Zealand failed to clear an inswinging corner delivered from the left flank. The Arsenal forward reacted quickest inside the six-yard box to guide the ball into the net.

The Europeans continued to dominate possession and attacking opportunities throughout the first half, restricting New Zealand to limited chances.

Five minutes into the second half, Trossard grabbed his second goal of the match. His initial effort was blocked, but the Belgian forward reacted swiftly to fire home the rebound and double his side’s advantage.

Captain Kevin De Bruyne extended Belgium’s lead in the 66th minute with a superb low strike from outside the penalty area.

The goal saw the Manchester City midfielder make history by becoming Belgium’s oldest-ever World Cup goalscorer at the age of 34 years and 363 days.

New Zealand briefly threatened a comeback when Elijah produced an excellent finish six minutes from time to reduce the deficit.

However, Belgium quickly restored their three-goal cushion.

Substitute Romelu Lukaku rose highest to score a crucial late header that confirmed Belgium would finish first in the group on goal difference.

Alexis Saelemaekers added further gloss to the scoreline by netting Belgium’s fifth goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time to complete an emphatic victory.

The result ensured Belgium advanced to the Round of 32 as Group G winners, while New Zealand’s World Cup campaign came to an end after failing to collect enough points to remain in contention.

Belgium will now face one of the best third-placed teams from Groups A, E, H, I or J in the Round of 32.

The knockout fixture is scheduled to take place in Seattle on July 1, where the Red Devils will hope to continue their pursuit of World Cup glory after an impressive group-stage campaign.