Belgium produced a commanding display to eliminate the United States from the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a convincing 4-1 victory in their Round of 16 clash at Seattle Stadium.
The Red Devils took control from the opening whistle and never looked back, with Charles De Ketelaere stealing the spotlight by scoring twice in the first half. Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku added second-half goals to complete an emphatic performance that secured Belgium’s place in the quarter-finals.
The match was surrounded by controversy before kickoff after U.S. President Donald Trump disclosed that he had contacted FIFA regarding the suspension of U.S. forward Folarin Balogun, who had been sent off in the previous round. Following a review, Balogun was cleared to play, a decision that drew criticism from Belgium’s camp ahead of the encounter.
Belgium wasted little time asserting their dominance. De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the ninth minute, tapping home from close range after a low cross from Nicolas Raskin split the U.S. defense.
The Americans found a way back into the contest midway through the first half when Balogun won a free kick in a dangerous position. Malik Tillman’s effort took a fortunate deflection on its way into the net, briefly restoring hope for the home supporters.
That optimism was short-lived. Just two minutes later, De Ketelaere restored Belgium’s lead with a powerful header from Leandro Trossard’s cross, sending his side into halftime with a deserved advantage.
Belgium continued to dominate after the break. Goalkeeper Matt Freese’s costly mistake gifted Vanaken the opportunity to make it 3-1 before veteran striker Lukaku sealed the victory with a composed finish from a tight angle.
The result sends Belgium into the quarter-finals, where they will face Spain in what promises to be one of the tournament’s biggest matchups.
For the United States, the defeat brings an end to their World Cup campaign, while Belgium continue their pursuit of a second world title with growing confidence.
