Seattle, United States – Web Desk:Belgium secured a dominant 4-1 victory over the United States in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, booking their place in the quarter-finals and ending the host nation’s World Cup campaign.
Playing in front of a packed crowd in Seattle, Belgium made a strong start when Charles De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the 9th minute. The United States responded through Malik Tillman, who equalised in the 31st minute, raising hopes for the home fans.
However, Belgium restored their lead just two minutes later as De Ketelaere struck again in the 33rd minute, giving his side a 2-1 advantage at halftime.
Belgium extended their lead in the 57th minute when Loïs Openda capitalised on a mistake by the American goalkeeper to make it 3-1.
Despite continued pressure from the United States, Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois produced a series of crucial saves to deny the hosts any chance of a comeback.
Veteran striker Romelu Lukaku sealed the victory in stoppage time with Belgium’s fourth goal, completing a convincing 4-1 win and sending the European side into the quarter-finals.
Belgium will now face Spain in one of the most anticipated quarter-final clashes of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Note: The claims in the original text regarding FIFA reversing a suspension following intervention by US President Donald Trump have not been independently verified. They are therefore not included as established fact in this report.
