After a 5-1 victory over New Zealand and qualification for the 2026 World Cup knockout stage, Belgium coach Rudi Garcia responded to pre-match criticism of his team.

Garcia particularly criticized the Belgian media. After disappointing draws against Egypt and Iran in the first two rounds of the World Cup, the media had fiercely criticized Belgian players, with veterans De Bruyne and Lukaku becoming particular targets.

Rudi Garcia said: "I really cannot accept them being called 'past their prime.' When a country has players of this caliber, we should support them. I trust all my players, and I trust my team leaders. They have faced too much criticism, and I think it is ugly.

"Tonight, they have responded. Trossard scored twice, De Bruyne contributed a goal and an assist, and Lukaku also scored. This is the answer these Belgian veterans have given."

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