SEATTLE July 6, 2026 — Belgium delivered a dominant and clinical performance to defeat the United States 4-1 in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 at Seattle Stadium (Lumen Field), ending the co-hosts’ tournament run and advancing to the quarterfinals against Spain.
Charles De Ketelaere was the standout performer with a brace and involvement in another goal, as Belgium capitalized on early nerves and defensive errors from the Americans.
The United States, aiming for their first quarterfinal appearance since 2002, started nervously against a well-organized Belgian side. Belgium took the lead as early as the 9th minute when Charles De Ketelaere poked the ball home after a sloppy clearance by the US defense.
The hosts responded in the 31st minute when Malik Tillman curled in a superb direct free-kick — his second goal from a set-piece in consecutive matches — to level the score at 1-1.
However, Belgium restored their advantage just two minutes later in the 33rd minute. De Ketelaere scored his second of the night (assisted by Leandro Trossard), leaving the US rattled. Coach Mauricio Pochettino was visibly frustrated on the sideline.
The second half brought more heartbreak for the Americans. In the 57th minute, goalkeeper Matt Freese rushed out of his area to deal with a long ball but lost possession. Hans Vanaken pounced and rolled the ball into an empty net to make it 3-1.
Belgium sealed a comprehensive victory in stoppage time when substitute Romelu Lukaku finished smartly to complete the 4-1 scoreline.
Belgium controlled the game effectively, exploiting transitions and capitalizing on US mistakes. The Americans showed some fight after the equalizer but lacked cohesion, particularly in defense and midfield transitions.
This result marks the elimination of all three co-host nations (USA, Mexico, and Canada) in the Round of 16. Belgium, who have now reached the quarterfinals for the third consecutive World Cup, will face Spain next.
The match was played in front of a passionate Seattle crowd that created an electric atmosphere early on, but the mood turned as Belgium pulled away.
Final Score: United States 1-4 Belgium
Goals:
- De Ketelaere 9′, 33′ (Belgium)
- Tillman 31′ (USA)
- Vanaken 57′ (Belgium)
- Lukaku (stoppage time) (Belgium)
Belgium’s clinical finishing and composure proved decisive against a US side that struggled to cope with the intensity of knockout football on home soil.
The official FIFA match report and highlights capture a night of contrasting fortunes — early promise for the hosts quickly turned into disappointment as Belgium advanced with authority.
About The Author
