Belgium Dominates US 4-1 in World Cup Round of 16 Amid Controversy

Belgium decisively defeated the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16 match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing their place in the quarterfinals against Spain. The victory came amid controversy surrounding the red card given to US player Polarin Balogun, which Belgium players said motivated them. Charles De Ketelaere, who scored twice, acknowledged the incident gave them "a bit of motivation" but emphasized the team’s own effort was decisive. Midfielder Youri Tielemans said the decision to allow Balogun to start "lit a fire" under the team, and they aimed to send a message on the field. Belgium’s coach Rudy Garcia praised his team as a "wonderful football nation," while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois highlighted their strong performance despite recent doubts about their strength. Belgium’s official social media account mocked the US, saying "Cancel that" and emphasizing the sport as "football, not soccer." The match took place overnight between July 6 and 7, 2026, with the US unable to overcome Belgium’s dominance despite an early equalizer by Malik Tillman. De Ketelaere’s second goal and involvement in the third sealed the US fate. Belgium now prepares to face Spain in the quarterfinals.