Belgium clinches World Cup group win, eyes Senegal in last‑16
Belgium secured a 5‑1 victory over New Zealand, finishing as the group winner at the FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Around 1,000 fans gathered in Berlaar to watch the match on a big screen, celebrating the decisive win that kept the team’s tournament hopes alive.
Statistically, the Belgian side dominated the group stage, leading with 73 shots on target, the highest among all teams. Kevin De Bruyne praised his personal performance and the squad’s overall play, while also warning that the upcoming round‑of‑16 clash with Senegal will be a tougher test, describing Senegal as one of Africa’s best sides.
American analysts on ESPN downplayed Belgium’s chances, calling the team “ok‑team” compared to the U.S., but the Belgian camp remains focused on advancing to the knockout rounds.