Belgium gave their most complete performance of this World Cup on Friday night, thrashing New Zealand 5-1 to confirm their place in the Round of 32 as Group A winners. Goals from Romelu Lukaku (two), Kevin De Bruyne, Leandro Trossard and Yannick Carrasco made it a comprehensive evening for Roberto Martinez's side. The Red Devils looked every inch a team capable of going deep into this tournament — fluid, powerful, and clinical in front of goal.
De Bruyne was the standout performer, pulling the strings from deep and scoring a remarkable solo effort in the 38th minute that will be on highlight reels for years. This Belgium generation has underachieved in major tournaments but tonight, at least, they answered every question about their quality.
How the goals came
Belgium were ahead inside eight minutes when De Bruyne's perfectly weighted through ball found Lukaku, who composed himself brilliantly before slotting past the keeper. The second arrived on 25 minutes when Trossard cut inside from the left and curled a shot into the far corner. De Bruyne's solo goal on 38 minutes was the pick of the bunch — he picked up the ball 30 yards out, beat two men and drove a low shot into the bottom corner.
New Zealand pulled one back just before half-time through a fortunately deflected cross that looped over the keeper, briefly giving their fans hope. Belgium killed the game in the second half though. Lukaku's 67th-minute penalty made it four after he was brought down in the box, and Carrasco rounded off the scoring on 78 minutes with a cool finish from the edge of the area.
What this means for Belgium
Belgium top Group A with maximum points and nine goals scored. They look genuinely dangerous. Lukaku has rediscovered his best form after a difficult club season, scoring four goals in three group games. De Bruyne's influence on everything they do remains immense. If their defensive shape continues to hold — they conceded just twice in the group — Belgium have the tools to challenge anyone in the knockout rounds.
Martinez has also shown he can manage the squad smartly, rotating his options without losing quality. Eden Hazard came off the bench tonight and looked sharp. Belgium have real depth, which matters more and more as the tournament progresses and the schedule tightens.
New Zealand's World Cup ends
New Zealand bow out after an ultimately tough group campaign. They competed and their consolation goal showed some spirit. But the quality of Belgium's forward line was always going to be a significant obstacle. The All Whites leave with their heads held high — they won a game and played some decent football in patches. For a nation developing their football culture, the experience will be valuable.
Match details: Belgium 5-1 New Zealand, 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A. Goals: Lukaku 8', 67' (pen); Trossard 25'; De Bruyne 38'; Carrasco 78'. New Zealand: 45'. Belgium top Group A. Sources: ESPN / FIFA.
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