Belgium Crush USA to Reach World Cup Quarterfinals

Belgium ended the United States’ hopes of a dream home FIFA World Cup run with a commanding 4-1 victory in Seattle, booking a quarterfinal showdown with Spain and eliminating the tournament’s final remaining co-host, Softfootball reports.

With Canada already knocked out by Morocco and Mexico eliminated earlier in the competition, the defeat confirmed that all three co-host nations have now exited the 2026 World Cup before the quarterfinals.

Charles De Ketelaere was the star of the show, scoring twice and providing an assist in a clinical display. He opened the scoring after eight minutes before Malik Tillman restored parity in the 31st minute with his second free-kick goal of the tournament. Belgium, however, responded immediately, reclaiming the lead just 61 seconds later to expose the Americans’ defensive frailties.

Christian Pulisic’s evening ended prematurely after sustaining a foot injury, while Folarin Balogun, whose suspension had been overturned, was unable to inspire a comeback.

Romelu Lukaku added a fourth goal in stoppage time to seal an emphatic victory as Belgium stretched their unbeaten run to 18 matches. The Red Devils now face Spain in the quarterfinals, while the United States bow out alongside fellow co-hosts Canada and Mexico.

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