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Qatar News Agency reported that Charles De Ketelaere gave Belgium an early lead in the ninth minute at Lumen Field Stadium. Malik Tillman equalized for the United States from a free kick in the 31st minute before De Ketelaere restored the advantage two minutes later. Hans Vanaken added a third goal in the 57th minute and Romelu Lukaku scored in stoppage time to complete the scoring and send Belgium through.
Match statistics published by ESPN showed Belgium outperforming the United States with an expected goals tally of 2.14 against 0.67. The Belgians created four big chances to the Americans’ none while registering more shots on target despite trailing in possession at 44 percent. These numbers highlighted Belgium’s efficiency in front of goal and control in key moments of the round of 16 contest.
The result ended the United States’ run as co-hosts of the 2026 tournament alongside Canada and Mexico. Multiple reports noted that this marked the fourth successive World Cup in which the Americans exited at the round of 16 having last reached the quarterfinals in 2002. The home side had entered the match with momentum after topping Group D and defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina in the round of 32.
Soccer databases indicate Belgium holds a dominant record in recent meetings with the United States having secured four wins in their last five encounters. FIFA records show the teams previously faced off in the 2014 World Cup round of 16 where Belgium prevailed 2-1 in extra time. A 5-2 friendly victory for Belgium in Atlanta in March 2026 further illustrated the gap between the sides heading into this tournament clash.
FIFA documentation confirms the United States advanced from the group stage and then overcame Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in the round of 32 despite being reduced to 10 players for much of the second half. Belgium progressed steadily through its group to set up the Seattle encounter. De Ketelaere stood out with two goals and an assist in a performance that proved decisive for the European team.
The official FIFA bracket places Spain against Belgium in the quarterfinals on July 10 at Los Angeles Stadium. Both nations represent European football at an advanced stage of the competition with the winner advancing to the semifinals. This matchup continues a pattern of strong showings by Belgium which has now reached the quarterfinals in three consecutive World Cups.
