Newsletters
Belgium ended the United States' World Cup run with a 4-1 win in Seattle on Monday, moving into the quarterfinals and denying the co-hosts their first last-eight appearance since 2002.
The Round of 16, the first knockout stage after the group phase, was shaped not only by Belgium's clinical finishing but also by the controversy surrounding U.S. striker Folarin Balogun.
He had been cleared to play a day after receiving a red card in the previous round, following a FIFA review that came after President Donald Trump called FIFA President Gianni Infantino about the suspension.
Belgium had criticized the decision, while some Belgian supporters waved red cards before kickoff. US fans, however, gave Balogun one of the loudest receptions during the team introductions, turning the striker into the central figure before the match even began.
Belgium went ahead through Charles De Ketelaere, but the U.S. found a way back before halftime. Balogun drew the foul that led to Malik Tillman's free-kick goal, pulling the Americans level at 1-1 and briefly lifting the crowd in Seattle.
That momentum faded almost immediately. Just two minutes later, De Ketelaere headed in his second goal of the match, restoring Belgium's lead and leaving US head coach Mauricio Pochettino visibly frustrated on the sideline.
Belgium widened the gap in the 57th minute after U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese misplayed the ball outside the penalty area. Hans Vanaken took advantage and scored into an open net, putting Belgium firmly in control.
Romelu Lukaku then added a fourth goal in stoppage time after another defensive breakdown, sealing a heavy defeat for the US and sending Belgium through to the quarterfinals.
The result closed a turbulent 24 hours for the U.S. team. FIFA rejected Belgium's appeal on Monday morning and later defended its decision to allow Balogun to play, saying Balogun and U.S. Soccer had been fined $40,000.
Belgium now moves on to the quarterfinals, while the U.S. exits after failing to build on its round-of-32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Set as preferred source
Set as preferred source
1 min read
1 min read
