Vancouver: Belgium secure knockout stage spot with 5-1 win over New Zealand

By Lewis Hartnell · Senior Football Correspondent · 27.06.2026

By Lewis Hartnell — 27 June 2026 — 3 min read

Belgium Dominates Group G Finale

Belgium secured their place in the World Cup 2026 knockout stages as Group G winners after a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand in Vancouver. Leandro Trossard was a key figure, scoring twice to help the Red Devils achieve their first win of the tournament.

The match saw Belgium display significant attacking prowess, registering 35 shots against New Zealand, the lowest-ranked team in the competition. This emphatic win ensured Belgium topped their group on goal difference, setting up a round of 32 clash.

The opening goal came in the 28th minute when Trossard capitalised on a corner with a poacher’s finish. He then doubled Belgium‘s lead just five minutes into the second half, chesting the ball before volleying it into the net.

Kevin De Bruyne added Belgium‘s third goal with a low strike. However, New Zealand managed a consolation goal in the 84th minute through Elijah Just, which briefly moved Belgium into the runners-up spot in the group.

The lead was quickly restored when substitute Romelu Lukaku headed in a goal just 64 seconds after coming on. Another substitute, Alexis Saelemaekers, sealed the victory with a fifth goal in stoppage time.

Key Performances and Next Steps

Leandro Trossard, an Arsenal forward, was instrumental in Belgium‘s performance. He had an early attempt in the 12th minute that hit the far post, and another effort was deflected onto the roof of the net after a pass from Kevin De Bruyne.

De Bruyne and Trossard linked up effectively throughout the match. De Bruyne‘s strike for Belgium‘s third goal showcased his skill, with a touch to create space and a precise shot from approximately 20 yards.

Belgium‘s manager, Rudi Garcia, expressed confidence in his team, stating that they are gaining momentum. He noted the importance of the four-goal difference in securing the top spot in the group.

New Zealand‘s coach, Darren Bazeley, acknowledged the challenge of facing Belgium and the missed opportunities in earlier games. He believes the experience will be valuable for his players, many of whom are expected to return for future tournaments.

The victory means Belgium will play their round of 32 match on Wednesday, July 1, at 9pm UK time in Seattle, against a third-placed finisher from either Group A, E, H, I, or J.

Group G Dynamics and Other Matches

The outcome of the Belgium versus New Zealand match had implications for Group G. Egypt, who drew against Iran 1-1, qualified in second place and are scheduled to play Australia in Dallas on July 3.

Iran, with three points and a neutral goal difference, maintains a strong chance of advancing to the round of 32 as a third-placed team. The match between Egypt and Iran saw a 93rd-minute winner for Iran disallowed after a VAR intervention.

Elsewhere in the tournament, Spain also progressed, winning 1-0 against Uruguay and will play their last 32 encounter against the runner-up of Group J on Thursday, July 2. William Saliba and Martin Odegaard were unused substitutes in the match between France and Norway, with both nations advancing to the knockout stages.

Belgium‘s strong performance in Vancouver ensures their progression in the World Cup 2026, with their next match scheduled for July 1.

Source: skysports.com

Lewis Hartnell

Senior Football Correspondent

As News GB's Senior Football Correspondent, Lewis Hartnell reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on south-coast football for a regional title. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Solent University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Lewis lives in Southampton, where he watches youth football and follows the transfer market. “The week's training ground decides the weekend's headlines.”