FIFA WORLD CUP 2026 : Belgium Thrash USA 4-1 to Reach World Cup Quarter-Finals
Belgium delivered a commanding performance to eliminate co-hosts USA with a convincing 4-1 victory in their Round of 16 clash at Lumen Field in Seattle.
The Red Devils took control early and never looked back, ending the home side’s campaign in front of a passionate American crowd. Charles De Ketelaere stole the show with a first-half brace as Belgium booked a quarter-final date with Spain.
De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the 9th minute, capitalising on a pass across the face of goal. Malik Tillman pulled the USA level in the 31st minute with a well-taken free-kick goal, giving the hosts brief hope. However, De Ketelaere restored Belgium’s lead just two minutes later with a powerful header from a Leandro Trossard cross. Hans Vanaken made it 3-1 in the 57th minute, and substitute Romelu Lukaku added a fourth in stoppage time (90+3′) to complete the rout.
The result marks the exit of all three host nations (USA, Canada, and Mexico) at the Round of 16 stage. Belgium now advances to face Spain in the quarter-finals, while the USA’s dream run on home soil comes to an end. The match highlighted Belgium’s clinical finishing and defensive solidity against a spirited but ultimately outmatched American side.
This victory sets up an exciting quarter-final showdown as Belgium continues its strong tournament campaign.
