Belgium beat New Zealand 5-1 to advance to World Cup knockout stage

Leandro Trossard scored twice as Belgium thrashed New Zealand 5-1 at the World Cup on Friday to seal top spot in Group G and a place ​in the round of 32, while the Kiwis bowed out of the tournament, Report informs via Reuters.

Belgium finished ‌above Egypt on goal difference after they both finished with five points from three matches, followed by Iran on three points and New Zealand on one. In the other match in the group, Egypt drew 1-1 with Iran.

Belgium ​will next face one of the eight best third-placed teams.

The Belgians dominated from the ​outset and were the only side to threaten in the opening half, enjoying ⁠the bulk of possession.

Trossard thought he had given Belgium the lead in the 11th minute, only ​to see his effort strike the post and bounce to safety.

Minutes later, Belgium were awarded a ​penalty after New Zealand defender Finn Surman was hit on the arm by Trossard's shot. However, following a VAR review, the referee ruled that Surman's arm was in a natural position and overturned the decision.

Belgium's pressure finally told ​in the 28th minute when Trossard converted Kevin De Bruyne's cross from close range, finishing off ​a well-worked move to break the deadlock.