Belgium defeats USA, ending co-hosts' World Cup dream

Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 on July 6, 2026, effectively ending the co-hosts’ World Cup hopes and setting up a quarter-final match with Spain.

Charles De Ketelaere scored twice, bringing the Americans’ World Cup momentum to a crashing halt, as the USA exited the tournament in the round of 16. This match followed a controversial situation concerning the suspension of US striker Folarin Balogun, which had drawn significant attention leading up to the game. US President Donald Trump intervened, advocating for a review of Balogun's one-match suspension, which FIFA controversially lifted.

On the field, Belgium surprised many by benching stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku. Coach Rudi Garcia's strategy paid off as De Ketelaere opened the scoring early. Despite Malik Tillman equalizing for the US from a free kick, De Ketelaere quickly restored Belgium’s lead, and a crucial error by goalkeeper Matt Freese allowed Hans Vanaken to score from long range. A late goal from veteran Romelu Lukaku sealed the outcome.

Fans packed Seattle’s stadium, with a massive cheer for Balogun's inclusion in the starting lineup overshadowing even Christian Pulisic’s introduction. However, the excitement quickly turned to despair as Belgium took control of the match.

Despite a second-half push for a comeback, with the Americans showing more intensity, the US suffered from defensive lapses that led to Belgium’s third goal. Cristian Pulisic suffered an injury midway through the second half, diminishing US hopes of reaching their first World Cup quarter-final since 2002. Although substitutes like Sebastian Berhalter attempted to change the tide, a mistake by Chris Richards at the end of the match allowed Lukaku to complete the rout.

With this decisive victory, Belgium progressed to face Spain in the quarter-finals, while the US, alongside co-hosts Canada and Mexico, exited the tournament.