The United States Men's National Team (USMNT) faced a tough 4-1 loss to Belgium in the Round of 16 match held in Seattle on July 7, 2026. The game started poorly for the USMNT, with Belgium taking an early lead less than 10 minutes in when forward Charles De Ketelaere scored, silencing the sold-out crowd.
Despite the setback, the U.S. team regained some momentum when midfielder Malik Tillman scored a free kick goal in the 31st minute, replicating his performance from the previous Round of 32 game against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Tillman's shot passed Belgium's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after deflecting off a defender.
However, the USMNT conceded a second goal just two minutes later, again scored by De Ketelaere, who headed the ball over defender Tim Ream. This sequence visibly frustrated head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who was seen kicking Powerade bottles in reaction to the team's performance.
Belgium dominated the match and ultimately secured a 4-1 victory, ending the United States' run in the tournament. The USMNT's performance, particularly in the first half, was described as a complete setback.
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