Belgium produced an impressive performance to defeat co-hosts the United States 4-1 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending the hosts’ campaign in Seattle.
Charles De Ketelaere starred with two goals as Belgium outclassed Mauricio Pochettino’s side to set up a last-eight meeting with Spain, who edged Portugal 1-0 on Monday.
The victory also confirmed the elimination of all three World Cup co-hosts, following Canada’s exit to Morocco and Mexico’s defeat against England.
Belgium made a bright start and went ahead after nine minutes when Nicolas Raskin’s low cross found De Ketelaere, who tapped home from close range.
The United States responded in the 31st minute as Malik Tillman’s free-kick deflected off Hans Vanaken and wrong-footed goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois for the equaliser.
However, Belgium regained the lead just two minutes later when De Ketelaere rose highest to head Leandro Trossard’s cross into the net.
Balogun unable to inspire hosts
Belgium tightened their grip after the break when Vanaken capitalised on hesitation from goalkeeper Matt Freese, who was dispossessed by De Ketelaere before the midfielder calmly finished into the bottom corner.
Substitute Romelu Lukaku completed the scoring in stoppage time with a composed finish from a tight angle to seal a convincing victory.
The match came after FIFA suspended the one-match ban handed to United States striker Folarin Balogun, allowing him to feature despite his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the previous round.
Balogun, who entered the match as the United States’ leading scorer with three goals, struggled to make an impact and was denied by Courtois late in the second half with his best opportunity.
The decision to suspend his ban had dominated the build-up after United States President Donald Trump confirmed he had asked FIFA to review the sanction.
Despite the pre-match controversy, the hosts failed to match Belgium’s quality and exited the tournament in the Round of 16 for the fourth time in their last five World Cup appearances.
Belgium, meanwhile, continue their impressive run under Rudi Garcia and will now face European champions Spain for a place in the semi-finals.