Trossard’s five-goal masterclass seals Belgium’s group win in Seattle

Belgium’s Leandro Trossard was the undisputed Man of the Match in the 5-1 victory over New Zealand, scoring twice and providing an assist to secure first place in Group E. His performance followed Egypt’s failure to beat Iran, leaving the Red Devils top of the group and guaranteeing their continued stay in Seattle for the next round. Trossard’s double and assist marked his best individual display in a Belgium shirt. "It is naturally my best game for the Red Devils when you look at the numbers," he said after the match. "But I think I delivered a very good performance overall. It’s always nice to win 5-1." The Arsenal forward felt he had grown into the tournament. "I feel very good and have the impression that I am growing with the team. We are very happy to go through as group winners." He credited the opening goal as pivotal in unlocking the game. "We had already created several chances and I felt that first goal would come. From that moment, I knew there would be more chances and goals." Belgium’s five-goal haul did not surprise Trossard, who highlighted the team’s collective confidence. "We had a very good feeling within the group. We knew we would finish today. That we scored five and became group winners is the icing on the cake."

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Earlier draws against Egypt and Iran had drawn external criticism, but Trossard insisted internal belief remained strong. "I think the doubts came mainly from outside. We always kept faith in our group." He also praised the depth of the squad. "You saw again today that even the players who come off the bench are important. They score goals and provide assists. That shows how strong this group is." Staying in Seattle was another advantage Trossard highlighted. "That is only better for us. We don’t have to travel again and can continue working in our familiar environment."

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With the group stage complete, Trossard framed the next phase as a fresh challenge. "From now on, every match is a final. But I think we are ready for it. This win has given us a lot of confidence." He believed Belgium had peaked at the right moment. "We created chances in the first two games too, but they didn’t go in. Today they did, and that makes a huge difference." With two goals, an assist and the Man of the Match award in hand, Trossard turned his focus forward. "I think we showed today that we are ready. Everyone is ready to take on the next game."