Belgium Dominates New Zealand 5-1 to Top World Cup Group G

Belgium secured top spot in Group G with a commanding 5-1 victory over New Zealand on Friday night in Vancouver, advancing to the World Cup knockout round. Leandro Trossard scored twice, with additional goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers, as the Belgians overwhelmed their opponents after a sluggish start to the tournament.

Belgium's turnaround was dramatic. After opening with a 1-1 draw against Egypt and a goalless draw with Iran, the team demonstrated their attacking prowess against the All Whites. Trossard struck first in the 28th minute, converting De Bruyne's cross from close range, and doubled the lead in the 50th minute with a well-taken volley. De Bruyne added a third shortly after, becoming the oldest player to score for Belgium at a World Cup at age 34. Lukaku and substitute Saelemaekers sealed the rout late in the match.

Belgium finished with five points from three matches, edging Egypt on goal difference to claim first place in the group. They will face one of the eight best third-placed teams in the round of 32, with their next match scheduled for Wednesday in Seattle. Egypt drew 1-1 with Iran in the simultaneous group finale, while New Zealand concluded their tournament with just one point, still seeking their first World Cup victory. New Zealand's Elijah Just scored a consolation goal in the 84th minute. Despite the heavy defeat, New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley acknowledged his team's effort against superior opposition, expressing hope that the experience would benefit them in future tournaments.