FIFA World Cup 2026: Leandro Trossard's brace powers Belgium to dominant 5-1 win over New Zealand
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At a glance
- Leandro Trossard scored twice as Belgium defeated New Zealand 5-1 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match.
- The victory secured Belgium's top spot in the group and confirmed their qualification for the Round of 32.
- Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers also scored for Belgium, while New Zealand managed a single goal.
Leandro Trossard delivered a standout performance, scoring two goals to lead Belgium to a commanding 5-1 victory over New Zealand in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G clash. The win cemented Belgium's position at the top of the group and secured their advancement to the Round of 32.
Trossard came close to earning an early penalty after his effort struck Finn Surman's arm, but the decision was overturned following a VAR review.
Belgium, which had shown inconsistent form in its initial matches, entered the game at BC Place needing a win to guarantee qualification. The team responded emphatically, with their progression further assured after Egypt's draw against Iran.
The breakthrough arrived in the 28th minute when Trossard converted from close range after a goalmouth scramble.
The match saw Belgium dominate from the outset, with New Zealand unable to register a shot in the first half. Trossard opened the scoring in the 28th minute following a scramble in the box. He extended Belgium's lead early in the second half with an acrobatic finish.
The Arsenal forward doubled his tally early in the second half with an acrobatic finish after his initial attempt was saved by Max Crocombe.
Kevin De Bruyne added a third goal with a precise strike from outside the box. Although New Zealand managed to pull one back through Elijah Just, Belgium quickly reasserted control. Romelu Lukaku headed home to increase the advantage, and later provided an assist for Alexis Saelemaekers, who completed the scoring.
Kevin De Bruyne then added to Belgium's lead in the 3-0 victory surge, curling a precise strike from outside the box after Trossard's driving run created space in the final third.
Originally published by Times of Oman. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.