Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 in the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending American hopes of reaching the quarterfinals. Defensive errors proved costly for the U.S. side throughout the match. Charles De Ketelaere scored twice for Belgium to lead the scoring. The presence of forward Folarin Balogun did not change the outcome, as American defenders allowed two first-half goals. Goalkeeper Matt Freese then made an error that gave Belgium a third goal early in the second half. Romelu Lukaku added a late fourth goal in stoppage time after another U.S. mistake. Malik Tillman equalized at 1-1 with a free kick midway through the first half, but Belgium responded within a minute. U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed frustration after the second goal. Christian Pulisic left the game injured in the second half. Belgium extended its unbeaten run to 18 matches and will face Spain next.
