Belgium has advanced to the Round of 32 of the World Cup after a decisive 5-1 victory against New Zealand. This result secured first place in Group G for Belgium, setting up a match against one of the tournament’s third-placed teams. For New Zealand, the defeat marked the end of their World Cup campaign.
The match saw strong performances from several Belgian players, particularly Leandro Trossard and Kevin De Bruyne, who were instrumental in their team’s attacking efforts. Trossard registered two goals, while De Bruyne contributed one, alongside goals from Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers.
Key Player Performances and Tactical Changes
Belgium’s manager made several changes to the starting lineup for the match against New Zealand. In defence, Brandon Mechele moved to right centre-back due to a suspension for Nathan Ngoy, who received a red card in the previous round. This adjustment allowed Arthur Theate to enter the squad on the left side, and Timothy Castagne replaced Thomas Meunier at right-back. In midfield, Hans Vanaken started in place of Nicolas Raskin.
In the attacking third, Jérémy Doku returned to the team after missing the prior match, starting on the right wing. This shift enabled Trossard to move to the left wing. Doku’s return was a significant topic in the pre-match press conference, where the manager noted that while Doku had not completed seven full days of training, he was a player capable of making a difference, though not expected to play the full 90 minutes. Charles De Ketelaere also returned to the starting XI following an injury recovery, with Lukaku starting on the bench.
Belgium demonstrated statistical dominance throughout the game, maintaining control of possession and generating a high number of attacking opportunities. The team recorded 35 shots and created four big chances, reflecting their offensive pressure.
Trossard and De Bruyne Lead the Attack
Trossard and De Bruyne were standout performers, combining effectively to break down the New Zealand defence. Trossard earned 17 fantasy points, displaying his threat from the outset. An early left-footed shot from Trossard hit the post, and another attempt after a pass from De Bruyne was deflected over the crossbar.
The pressure from Belgium eventually led to the opening goal when De Bruyne delivered a corner kick, which Trossard met at the back post to score. The partnership continued to flourish, with Trossard setting up De Bruyne inside the box, though the midfielder could not convert. Shortly after, De Bruyne’s shot rebounded off Vanaken to Trossard, who controlled the ball and scored his second goal. Their collaboration resulted in another goal when Trossard lost possession in the middle, but the loose ball fell to De Bruyne, who curled a left-footed shot into the corner from outside the box, making the score 3-0.
Trossard’s performance included two goals and seven attempts on target, while De Bruyne also impressed, earning 12 fantasy points. Substitute Lukaku made an impact after coming on, heading in a cross from Raskin and then assisting Saelemaekers for Belgium’s fifth goal, finishing the match with 11 fantasy points.
Defensive Efforts and Future Outlook
Despite Belgium’s strong defensive performance, New Zealand managed to score their only goal from a corner kick. The initial delivery was parried, and Elijah Just reacted quickly to score. New Zealand did not create any other significant scoring opportunities during the match.
Other players also featured in the game, with Doku playing for 56 minutes but having limited impact, registering two shots and two key passes. Maxim De Cuyper also had a notable moment, forcing a good save from the goalkeeper with a powerful strike.
Belgium now awaits the identification of their Round of 32 opponent, with South Korea, Senegal, Algeria, or Austria being potential contenders. The team enters the knockout stage with confidence, showing improving attacking rhythm and a growing understanding among its key forwards.
Meanwhile, Iran faced a tense situation in their group, as a late goal against Egypt by Shoja Khalilzadeh was disallowed by VAR for offside. This decision meant Egypt advanced to face Australia in the next round, leaving Iran to await other results to determine their progression, with a potential match against Switzerland in Vancouver.
Belgium’s 5-1 victory over New Zealand secured their position at the top of Group G.
The team’s dominant performance and the contributions of players like Trossard and De Bruyne highlight their potential as they move into the next phase of the tournament. The Round of 32 fixture for Belgium is yet to be confirmed.
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Source: fantasyfootballscout.co.uk
Harry Loxley is a Senior Football Correspondent at NewsGB.org. He spent his early career reporting East Midlands football. He focuses on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Derby and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Derby, he watches non-league and runs a fan podcast. “Good football writing follows the people, not just the points.”