The United States’ journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end after a 3-1 defeat against Belgium in the Round of 16 at Seattle Stadium. Following the exits of co-hosts Mexico and Canada, the USA became the third tournament host nation to be eliminated at this stage of the competition.
Belgium made a flying start, creating several chances before taking the lead in the ninth minute. Nicolas Raskin’s cross found Charles De Ketelaere inside the box, and the Belgian forward calmly finished from close range to put the European side ahead.
The hosts responded in the first half and managed to level the score in the 31st minute. Malik Tillman’s free-kick took a deflection off the Belgian wall, wrong-footing Thibaut Courtois and finding the back of the net to give the USA a lifeline.
However, Belgium quickly regained control. Just two minutes later, De Ketelaere scored his second goal of the night, heading in Leandro Trossard’s cross to restore Belgium’s lead before halftime.
The second half saw the USA push for an equalizer, but Belgium remained dangerous and extended their advantage in the 57th minute. A costly mistake from Matt Freese allowed De Ketelaere to win possession, before Hans Vanaken converted the chance to make it 3-1.
The Americans continued searching for a way back into the match, with Sebastian Berhalter narrowly missing in the 79th minute and Thibaut Courtois denying Folarin Balogun three minutes later. Despite their efforts, the hosts could not find another goal.
Belgium showed significant improvement compared to their earlier performances in the tournament and also demonstrated defensive discipline when under pressure.
Romelu Lukaku delivered the final blow deep into stoppage time, scoring in the 90+4th minute to seal Belgium’s victory and bring the USA’s World Cup journey to an end.
Their victory secured a place in the quarter-finals, where they will face Spain. Belgium’s quarter-final clash with Spain is scheduled for Friday 10th July at the Los Angeles Stadium.
