Leandro Trossard’s two goals propelled Belgium to a decisive 5-1 triumph against New Zealand, ensuring their advancement to the knockout rounds of the World Cup. This victory allowed Belgium to top Group G, setting them up for a last-32 encounter with one of the eight best third-placed teams.
The match began with a VAR intervention that overturned a penalty for Belgium. However, the deadlock was broken in the 28th minute when Kevin De Bruyne’s corner inadvertently struck New Zealand’s Tim Payne, allowing Trossard to score from close range.
Trossard found the net again shortly after halftime, receiving a precise pass from De Bruyne and firing home on the second attempt after his first effort was blocked. De Bruyne later added to the scoreline in the 66th minute with a powerful shot from the edge of the penalty area.
New Zealand managed to score a consolation goal through Elijah Just late in the game, but Belgium’s substitutes Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers sealed the victory, confirming their position at the top of the group ahead of Egypt.
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