27.06.2026 11:11
Belgium defeated New Zealand 5-1, finishing Group G as leaders on goal difference and advancing to the round of 32. On a night when Trossard scored twice, Courtois also made history as the player with the most World Cup appearances for Belgium.
In the Group G third and final week match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Belgium faced New Zealand. Belgium won the match 5-1 at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada, advancing to the Round of 32 as group leaders.
TROSSARD PUT ON A SHOW
Leandro Trossard opened the scoring in the 28th minute. Belgium ended the first half 1-0 ahead and continued their dominant play in the second half. Trossard doubled the lead in the 50th minute, and Kevin De Bruyne made it 3-0 in the 66th minute.
New Zealand reduced the deficit to two goals in the 84th minute through Just, but Belgium responded immediately. Romelu Lukaku, who came off the bench, scored with his first touch in the 86th minute. Alexis Saelemaekers' goal in the 90+4th minute sealed the final score: 5-1.
CLINCHED LEADERSHIP ON GOAL DIFFERENCE
With this result, Belgium increased their points to 5, matching Egypt, but finished Group G as leaders on goal difference, advancing to the Round of 32. New Zealand, stuck on 1 point, bid farewell to the World Cup in the group stage.
COURTOIS MADE HISTORY
Belgium's experienced goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois earned the title of the player with the most appearances in the World Cup for his country with the New Zealand match. The 34-year-old goalkeeper surpassed Enzo Scifo in this regard, going down in Belgian football history.