Leandro Trossard silences critics with masterclass against New Zealand
Leandro Trossard delivered a masterclass for Belgium against New Zealand on Friday, earning a rare 9.5/10 performance rating. His display, praised by coach Rudi Garcia as the best player of Belgium in the group stage, helped silence the lingering “Nilis‑syndrome” criticism surrounding the Red Devils.
Trossard had already impressed against Iran earlier in the tournament, showing a solid performance for Arsenal’s forward. Nevertheless, he missed the opening match, a common shortcoming among Belgian attackers in the group.
Rudi Garcia’s quote “Leandro is the best player of Belgium in this group stage” sparked debate, as the author noted that goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois prevented worse outcomes against Egypt and Iran, and defender Brandon Mechele was consistently strong. The author also highlighted that Courtois and Mechele’s contributions contrasted with Trossard’s initial absence.
The 9.5/10 rating reflects the high quality of Trossard’s performance, but the author withheld a perfect 10 because only a player of Eden Hazard’s 2018 level against Brazil would merit it. Hazard’s 2018 display was unique, with no goal or assist yet still considered exceptional.
Trossard inherited the number 10 shirt from Hazard, a beloved Red Devil of a generation, yet his personality differs markedly, which the author suggests did not aid his acceptance. Despite this, the Arsenal midfielder finally proved worthy of the iconic number.
Earlier reference points for Trossard, such as a goal and assist in Italy where Belgium played with a man advantage, have faded from memory, while his Friday performance in Vancouver will remain vivid. The “Nilis‑syndrome” will no longer automatically invoke his name as the first example of underperformance.
Neither Luc Nilis nor fellow club stars Mousa Dembélé or Loïs Openda have produced a comparable reference performance in a decisive match. The next challenge, according to the author, is to replicate this level against a stronger opponent like Senegal.
Against Senegal, Trossard’s game intelligence and decision‑making could tip the balance, dismantling a vulnerable defence while providing composure in possession. Should the Leandro Trossard of Friday appear again at Lumen Field in the round of 16 and erase his earlier showing against Egypt, public opinion is expected to shift further.