BELGIUM stormed into the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals after dismantling co-hosts the United States 4-1 in their Round of 16 clash at Seattle Stadium, Washington.
The Red Devils delivered a commanding performance to end the United States’ tournament run, with Charles De Ketelaere scoring twice and Romelu Lukaku completing the rout in stoppage time.
De Ketelaere opened the scoring for Belgium in the ninth minute, giving the European side an early advantage before the United States responded through Malik Tillman, who levelled the match in the 31st minute.
However, Belgium immediately regained control as De Ketelaere struck again just two minutes later, heading home in the 33rd minute to restore the lead.
Hans Vanaken extended Belgium’s advantage in the 57th minute before Lukaku sealed the victory with a fourth goal in the third minute of added time.
The match had been preceded by controversy surrounding FIFA’s decision to overturn the impact of United States forward Folarin Balogun’s previous red card, allowing him to feature in the knockout stage.
Despite being available for selection, Balogun was unable to influence the outcome as Belgium’s attacking quality and clinical finishing proved decisive.
The victory sends Belgium into the last eight of the 2026 World Cup, while the United States’ historic home tournament campaign comes to an end. - July 7, 2026
