Belgium advanced to the last 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after they thrashed New Zealand 5-1. The victory secured top spot in Group G on goal difference.
Leandro Trossard scored twice for Belgium. Kevin De Bruyne added a trademark strike from distance. Romelu Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers also found the net. Elijah Just pulled one back for New Zealand. Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco watched his side dominate after earlier draws in the group.
Belgium finished with five points. They qualified as group winners and set up a knockout clash against a third-placed team. The result ended New Zealand’s campaign with just one point.
In the other Group G match Egypt held Iran to a 1-1 draw in Seattle. Mahmoud Saber scored early for Egypt while Ramin Rezaeian equalised for Iran. Iran hit the crossbar late but a VAR decision denied them a winner. Egypt finished second with five points and advanced.
Iran ended with three points from three draws. Coach Amir Ghalenoei saw his team fight hard but fall short of automatic qualification. They now wait to see if they progress as one of the best third-placed teams. Egypt coach Hossam Hassan praised his players’ resilience after the result.
Belgium and Egypt moved forward while Iran and New Zealand exited the group stage. The matches delivered goals and drama on the final day. Belgium’s attacking display contrasted with the tight battle between Egypt and Iran.
