Belgium secure their first win of the 2026 World Cup with a 5-1 thrashing of New Zealand, finishing top of Group G and progressing to the round of 32. Leandro Trossard scores twice, with Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers also adding goals. The match includes penalty controversy: a penalty award after a shot hit an opponent’s arm is reviewed by VAR and overturned. Belgium still take control shortly after, extending their lead through Trossard and De Bruyne, before New Zealand score a late consolation. Lukaku and Saelemaekers complete the scoring as Belgium’s dominant performance carries them into the knockout stage.
In the group’s other fixture, Egypt and Iran draw 1-1, with Egypt advancing as runners-up and Iran finishing third and waiting on final outcomes linked to stoppage-time drama in their match. With Belgium winning Group G on goal difference, they are set to face a third-placed team from another group in the round of 32. Multiple outlets report Belgium’s opponents will come from Group A or B depending on the final group standings.
