World Cup 2026: Belgium crush New Zealand as Trossard scores twice

The match brought together two teams still looking for points after two rounds. Belgium, with two draws against Egypt and Iran (1-1, 0-0), wanted to secure a first win to boost its chances of qualification. New Zealand, which had a draw against Iran (2-2) and a defeat to Egypt (1-3), hoped to spring a surprise in this third Group G match.

Belgian No. 10 Leandro Trossard proved decisive from the 28th minute by opening the scoring, then doubled the lead shortly after the restart in the 50th minute, from a Hans Vanaken pass. Belgium used that momentum to extend the advantage through Kevin De Bruyne (66th), who had already delivered a polished performance at the heart of play, and Romelu Lukaku, introduced late in the match, who scored (86th) after a precise pass from Nicolas Raskin. Alexis Saelemaekers capped the rout in the final moments (90+4th), giving the Red Devils a fifth goal.

New Zealand saved face through Elijah Just in the 84th minute. Despite that goal, the All Whites were overwhelmed by Belgium in terms of play and chances, with only 42% possession and four shots on target compared with seven for Belgium. The New Zealanders tried to hold firm but committed several fouls, receiving two yellow cards, notably for Marko Stamenić just after the break and for Elijah Just.

Both teams lined up in a 4-2-3-1. Belgium, under Rudi Garcia, relied on a solid midfield built around Youri Tielemans, Hans Vanaken and Kevin De Bruyne, who scored and played a decisive role in the attacking play. New Zealand started Max Crocombe in goal, protected by a defense led by Tim Payne and Liberato Cacace, with Chris Wood up front.

Belgium keep their ambitions alive with a convincing win

The Belgian side put in place a quick game combined with a strong presence in the opposition penalty area. Leandro Trossard, back in the starting XI, confirmed his role as a key player with two goals and several chances created. Kevin De Bruyne orchestrated play in midfield, providing support and vision, while Youri Tielemans maintained balance and ball recovery. With 58% possession and a total of 26 shots, the Red Devils showed clear technical and physical superiority. The introductions of Jérémy Doku, Alexis Saelemaekers, Amadou Onana and Romelu Lukaku allowed them to maintain a high tempo and score late in the match.

New Zealand outmatched despite a few flashes of hope

New Zealand set up in a similar tactical shape but struggled to contain Belgium’s attacks. The defense, although mobile with Tim Payne and Finn Surman, conceded four goals without being able to respond effectively. The midfield, made up of Joe Bell, Marko Stamenić and Sarpreet Singh, tried to contain the opposition’s play but suffered under Belgium’s pressing and technical quality. The substitutions after the break were not enough to reverse the trend. Elijah Just did, however, find a way through late in the match, rewarding New Zealand’s efforts despite the heavy defeat.

This victory strengthens Belgium’s position in its group, giving it better prospects of qualifying for the round of 32. New Zealand will have to recover quickly on the final matchday if it hopes to continue its journey in this World Cup.