Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on July 6 at Lumen Field. The result eliminated the co-host nation from the tournament.
Charles De Ketelaere scored twice for Belgium, in the 9th and 33rd minutes. Malik Tillman pulled the United States even with a free kick goal in the 31st minute. Hans Vanaken added a goal in the 57th minute, and Romelu Lukaku scored in stoppage time.
Belgium took control early. De Ketelaere finished a chance in the box to open the scoring. The United States responded when Tillman curled in a free kick from around 27 yards. That goal marked the first time an American player had scored in consecutive World Cup knockout matches. Belgium quickly regained the lead before halftime when De Ketelaere struck again.
In the second half, Vanaken extended the advantage after a sequence that included a save from United States goalkeeper Matt Freese. Lukaku sealed the win late with a low finish assisted by Vanaken. The United States had fewer clear chances overall and finished with limited shots on target.
Folarin Balogun started for the United States after his earlier suspension from the previous round was cleared. He had limited impact and was substituted late. Christian Pulisic and other attackers saw time but could not create enough to change the outcome. On the Belgium side, De Ketelaere stood out with his clinical finishing. Lukaku added to his international goal tally with the late strike. Belgium managed their squad by resting some key players early in the tournament but showed depth when needed.
The United States entered the match with momentum from group stage results and the round of 32 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina. However, defensive lapses and Belgium’s efficient attack proved too much. Coach Mauricio Pochettino’s team showed fight in moments, including the quick response to the opening goal, but could not sustain pressure against a strong opponent.
This match marked the end of the United States campaign at the 2026 World Cup. As one of the three host nations alongside Canada and Mexico, the tournament carried extra meaning. It was the first time the United States hosted the event since 1994. The co-hosting role brought large crowds to home games and placed the national team in the spotlight. Soccer has grown steadily in the country over recent decades, with more young players developing through clubs and academies. The 2026 edition gave the USMNT a platform to compete in front of home fans and build on that progress.
The team’s run included notable contributions from players like Tillman and Balogun. Pochettino focused on building a group that could handle pressure and show unity. The loss to Belgium closed this chapter but connects to longer-term efforts to raise the level of American soccer. Future cycles, including the 2030 World Cup, will build on the experience gained here. The hosting duties created memories for fans and highlighted the sport’s place in the United States.