Belgium thrash New Zealand 5-1 to top Group G; Iran edge Chile to keep hopes alive

Belgium defeated New Zealand 5-1 in the final group match to top Group G on goal difference, while Iran beat Chile 2-1 with a late header to secure second place and advance to the round of 16.

On June 26, 2026, the final round of Group G matches at the FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States saw Belgium overturn New Zealand 5-1 to snatch top spot, while Iran snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory over Chile to keep their knockout stage hopes alive. Belgium entered the match needing a win to guarantee progression, while New Zealand also sought victory to boost their chances. The Red Devils took the lead in the 12th minute when Kevin De Bruyne threaded a pass to Romelu Lukaku, who slotted home. New Zealand equalized in the 28th minute through a Chris Wood header from a corner. Belgium regained control quickly. In the 35th minute, Eden Hazard cut inside from the left and curled a shot into the top corner. In the second half, Belgium dominated. De Bruyne's long-range effort was parried by the goalkeeper, allowing Lukaku to tap in his second. Substitute Leandro Trossard scored from close range after a pass from Dries Mertens. Yannick Carrasco sealed the win with a powerful strike from distance. In the other Group G match, Iran faced Chile. Iran needed only a draw to advance, while Chile had to win. Chile took the lead in the 18th minute through Alexis Sanchez's header. Iran pushed for an equalizer and hit the crossbar through Sardar Azmoun. In the 67th minute, Alireza Jahanbakhsh scored with a long-range effort. Deep into stoppage time, Morteza Pouraliganji headed home from a corner to give Iran a 2-1 victory. The final standings saw Belgium and Iran both on 7 points, with Belgium topping the group on goal difference. New Zealand finished third with 3 points, and Chile bottom with 2 points. Both Belgium and Iran advanced to the round of 16. Belgium coach Roberto Martinez praised his team's resilience: "We showed great character after conceding. We deserved to top the group." Iran coach Carlos Queiroz hailed his players' spirit: "We never gave up. The late goal was a reward for our hard work." In the knockout stage, Belgium will face the runner-up of Group H, while Iran will meet the Group H winner. Both teams are optimistic about their chances. Belgium's De Bruyne said, "We are in great form and confident we can beat any opponent." Iran's Azmoun added, "We have made history. Now we want to go further."

Belgium thrash New Zealand 5-1 to top Group G; Iran edge Chile to keep hopes alive

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