By Ronald Blum - Associated Press

SEATTLE — The United States' aspirations for a deep run in the 2026 World Cup ended Monday night after Belgium defeated the Americans 4-1, securing a spot in the quarterfinals.

Charles De Ketelaere was instrumental for Belgium, scoring twice and assisting on another goal. The match exposed defensive weaknesses in the U.S. team, including errors that led to two first-half goals and a mistake by goalkeeper Matt Freese that allowed a third Belgian goal early in the second half.

The U.S. offense saw a boost with star forward Folarin Balogun, whose one-game red-card suspension was controversially lifted by FIFA. Malik Tillman tied the game 1-1 midway through the first half with his second free kick goal of the tournament, but the Americans conceded a goal just 61 seconds after the ensuing kickoff.

Belgium's substitute Romelu Lukaku added a final goal in the third minute of stoppage time.

The victory advances Belgium, known as the Red Devils, to face Spain in the quarterfinals on Friday in Inglewood, California.

U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed visible frustration during the match, kicking a rack near the bench and knocking over four water bottles.

Sources