Belgium delivered a dominant performance to defeat the United States 4–1 on Monday, ending the co-hosts’ World Cup run and booking a quarter-final showdown with Spain.
Charles De Ketelaere scored twice, while Hans Vanaken capitalized on a goalkeeping error, and substitute Romelu Lukaku added a late fourth to seal the victory at Lumen Field in Seattle.
The match followed pre-game controversy surrounding U.S. striker Folarin Balogun, whose suspension was overturned by FIFA. However, Balogun made little impact as Belgium controlled proceedings throughout.
De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the ninth minute before Malik Tillman equalized for the U.S. in the 31st. Belgium quickly regained the lead two minutes later through De Ketelaere’s header, and Vanaken extended the advantage in the 57th minute after a costly mistake by goalkeeper Matt Freese. Lukaku wrapped up the win in stoppage time.
Belgium captain Youri Tielemans said the controversy had motivated the team. “We wanted to respond on the pitch, and we did,” he said.
U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino admitted his side fell short. “It was a very bad day, collectively and individually,” he said.
Belgium will now face Spain in Los Angeles on Friday.
Spain secured their place with a 1–0 victory over Portugal, thanks to a stoppage-time goal from substitute Mikel Merino. The result marked a likely final World Cup appearance for Cristiano Ronaldo, who said he would reflect on his future after the defeat.
