Belgium has advanced to the World Cup round of 32 after a decisive 5-1 victory over New Zealand, securing the top position in Group G. The result means New Zealand’s tournament journey has concluded.
Leandro Trossard was a key player for Belgium, scoring two goals in the match. His contributions, along with goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers, ensured Belgium’s progression.
Belgium’s Dominant Performance
Belgium demonstrated strong control from the start of the match, maintaining significant possession and creating numerous attacking opportunities. Their persistent pressure eventually led to the opening goal.
Trossard initially had an attempt hit the post in the 11th minute. Shortly after, Belgium was awarded a penalty when a shot from Trossard struck New Zealand defender Finn Surman‘s arm. However, the decision was overturned following a VAR review, as the referee determined Surman’s arm was in a natural position.
The deadlock was broken in the 28th minute when Trossard converted a cross from De Bruyne from close range, completing a well-executed team play. This goal set the tone for Belgium’s performance.
Trossard extended Belgium’s lead in the 50th minute, again linking up effectively with De Bruyne. He controlled a through ball with his chest before volleying it home from close range, marking his second goal of the match.
New Zealand managed to create a chance in the 54th minute when Elijah Just forced Thibaut Courtois into a save, with the goalkeeper diving to push away their first shot on target.
De Bruyne added Belgium’s third goal soon after, striking from the edge of the box. He received a setup from Trossard, took one touch onto his left foot, and drove the ball into the bottom corner. This goal made him the oldest player to score for Belgium at a World Cup.
The goal was met with chants of “Oh Kevin De Bruyne” from the Belgian supporters at BC Place, where a large number of fans from both teams were present.
New Zealand’s Campaign Ends
New Zealand managed to score a goal in the 84th minute through Just. However, Lukaku quickly restored Belgium’s three-goal advantage with a powerful header. Saelemaekers, a substitute, then added a fifth goal in stoppage time, compounding New Zealand’s challenging night.
Lukaku’s goal also made him Belgium’s top scorer at the World Cup, surpassing Marc Wilmots with six goals. New Zealand is still seeking their first victory in a World Cup tournament.
New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley expressed disappointment with the result but pride in his team’s effort. He noted that the experience against a strong opponent would contribute to the team’s future development, stating that they would be more resilient in the next tournament.
New Zealand finished the group stage with a solitary point, having drawn 2-2 with Iran and suffered a 3-1 loss to Egypt before their match against Belgium. Belgium, on the other hand, ended with five points from three matches, finishing above Egypt on goal difference, who also had five points. Iran had three points, and New Zealand had one.
Looking Ahead for Belgium
Belgium’s star-studded attack, featuring players like De Bruyne, Lukaku, and Jeremy Doku, had a slow start to the tournament, drawing their first two matches. However, their strong performance in this final group stage match secured their advancement.
Trossard commented on the team’s performance, stating, “We have performed very well. We are happy now because we’re number one. Now we have to go to the round of 32, and we’re all ready to deliver.” He also noted the positive atmosphere in Belgium, with many people watching the match and anticipating a great atmosphere for the next stage.
Belgium will now prepare to face one of the eight best third-placed teams in the upcoming round of 32.
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Source: theguardian.com
Arjun Sharma
Sports Reporter