Belgium forward Leandro Trossard produced a remarkable creative display against Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, creating five chances for Kevin De Bruyne in a single match and matching a record that has stood for two decades.
According to Opta statistics, Trossard became the first player since Bastian Schweinsteiger created five chances for Michael Ballack against Sweden at the 2006 World Cup to set up the same teammate on five occasions in a World Cup match.
The achievement came during Belgium’s tense Group G encounter against Iran, which ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw despite the Red Devils dominating large portions of the contest. Trossard repeatedly found De Bruyne in dangerous positions, but Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament to keep Belgium at bay.
One of the earliest examples of the Arsenal star’s creativity came when he cut the ball back for De Bruyne inside the penalty area, forcing Beiranvand into an important save. Throughout the match, Trossard continued to supply Belgium’s captain with opportunities as the pair combined brilliantly in the final third.
The performance underlined Trossard’s growing importance for both club and country. The versatile attacker has enjoyed several productive seasons and has become one of Belgium’s most reliable attacking outlets thanks to his intelligence, movement, and ability to create chances from wide positions.
Despite Trossard’s creativity, Belgium were unable to find a breakthrough. The match became even more difficult when defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off in the second half, forcing Belgium to finish the game with ten men. Iran nearly stole victory on several occasions, while a Mehdi Taremi goal was ruled out for offside.
Statistics from the game highlighted Belgium’s attacking dominance. Trossard was credited with creating more chances than any other player on the pitch, while De Bruyne remained heavily involved in Belgium’s attacking moves. However, the finishing touch was missing as Iran’s defensive resilience frustrated the European side.
For Arsenal supporters, Trossard’s performance will be particularly encouraging ahead of the new season. While transfer speculation continues to surround several attacking players across Europe, the Belgian international once again demonstrated why he remains a valuable asset at the highest level.
The draw leaves Group G wide open heading into the final round of fixtures. Belgium now face a must-win clash against New Zealand, while Iran will take on Egypt as all four teams continue their battle for a place in the knockout stages.
Although Belgium failed to secure three points, Trossard’s extraordinary connection with Kevin De Bruyne ensured the match will be remembered for more than just the scoreline. By equaling a World Cup record that dates back to 2006, the Arsenal forward once again proved that he belongs among the tournament’s elite creators.
