Belgium through to World Cup knockout stage as Iran forced to wait
Belgium thrashed New Zealand 5-1 to secure a spot in the World Cup round of 32, while Iran's progression remains uncertain after a draw with Egypt.
Belgium Secure Knockout Berth with Dominant Win
Belgium booked their place in the World Cup knockout stages with a resounding 5-1 victory over New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday. The win lifted the Red Devils to the top of Group G, ensuring their spot in the round of 32 after two initial draws.
Key Goals and Performances
Arsenal's Leandro Trossard scored a brace, with Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers also finding the net. Trossard opened the scoring in the 28th minute with an instinctive finish from a corner and added a second early in the second half. De Bruyne's low left-footed strike from outside the box made it 3-0, before Lukaku headed in a fourth and Saelemaekers completed the scoring.
Group G Scenarios
Belgium had previously drawn 1-1 with Egypt in Seattle and 0-0 with Iran. Egypt also advanced as group runners-up and will face Australia in Dallas. Iran, after a 1-1 draw with Egypt, must now wait for results from Groups J, K and L to learn their fate. New Zealand were eliminated with just one point.
Other World Cup Action
Uruguay exited the tournament after a 1-0 loss to Spain in Guadalajara, with Álex Baena scoring the winner. Spain topped Group H and avoided a potential clash with Argentina; they will play the runner-up of Group J (either Austria or Algeria) in Los Angeles. France also maintained their perfect record, beating Norway 4-1 to finish first in Group I. France will face Sweden, while Norway meet Ivory Coast in the round of 32.
