Belgium Eliminates United States, Advances to Quarterfinals

In the 2026 World Cup, Belgium dominated the United States, winning 4-1 on July 7, 2026, in Seattle during the Round of 16. This victory secured Belgium's place in the quarterfinals, where they will face Spain. Led by Charles De Ketelaere, who scored twice, the Red Devils confirmed their superiority over a quickly overwhelmed American team.

Belgium started strong, taking the lead early with a goal from De Ketelaere in the 9th minute. The Americans equalized against the run of play when Malik Tillman’s free kick was accidentally deflected into his own net by Hans Vanaken in the 31st minute. However, the Belgian response was immediate, as De Ketelaere scored again with a header just two minutes later (33rd minute), allowing Belgium to head into halftime with a deserved advantage of 2-1.

After halftime, the United States attempted to press more, but they could not break through the well-organized Belgian defense. Belgium extended their lead in the 57th minute, taking advantage of a significant mistake from goalkeeper Matt Freese. Vanaken intercepted the ball and finished into the small net to make the score 3-1. Despite some attempts by the Americans, notably by Folarin Balogun and Sebastian Berhalter, Thibaut Courtois stood strong to maintain the Belgian advantage.

Entering the match in the 68th minute, Romelu Lukaku joined the scoring, netting the fourth goal in stoppage time (90+3). After being set up by Vanaken's winning press, Lukaku capitalized on an error by Chris Richards to beat Freese and definitively seal the victory for Belgium.

This qualification, however, was marred by the injury of Amadou Onana, who had to leave the pitch during the first period and was later seen on crutches at the sidelines. Despite this setback, Belgium continued their journey in the tournament, now aiming to defeat Spain to reach the semifinals.