Belgium Dominates USA 4-1 to Secure World Cup Quarterfinal Spot

Belgium secured its place in the World Cup quarterfinals with a commanding 4-1 victory over the United States on Tuesday in Seattle. This win marked Belgium's seventh consecutive triumph against the US, extending their dominance in head-to-head encounters. The United States, aiming to reach the quarterfinals for the first time since 2002, suffered a significant setback as all three host nations were eliminated in the round of 16.

Before the match, attention focused on Christian Pulisic, who was cleared to start after a one-game suspension was lifted. Despite US coach Mauricio Pochettino positioning Pulisic as the team's leading striker, Belgium started aggressively. Charles De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the 9th minute after a defensive lapse by the Americans. Shortly after, Belgium's goalkeeper Amadou Onana left the field due to a knee injury.

The US equalized in the 30th minute through Malik Tillman’s free kick, but Belgium quickly regained the lead with De Ketelaere scoring his second goal. Pochettino made an attacking substitution at halftime, bringing Giovanni Reyna on for Sergiño Dest, but the US struggled to gain momentum. Belgium extended their lead in the 57th minute when Hans Vanaken scored from 35 meters after capitalizing on a mistake by US goalkeeper Matt Turner.

Belgium controlled the remainder of the match, adding a fourth goal in the closing minutes by Romelu Lukaku, who finished off another defensive error. The Belgian team will face European champions Spain in the quarterfinals in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, the US team's early exit raises questions about the future of coach Mauricio Pochettino.

The match took place at Lumen Field in Seattle, with referee Adham Makhadmeh from Jordan officiating. The knockout stages of the World Cup 2026 will continue with quarterfinals from July 9 to 11, semifinals on July 14 and 15, and the final on July 19.