Belgium ends US World Cup hopes with dominant 4-1 victory
Belgium advanced to the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, defeating the United States 4-1 in a Round of 16 match that saw the co-hosts exit the tournament. The American side, playing in Seattle, struggled with defensive errors and a lack of their usual attacking prowess, allowing Belgium to control much of the game and set up a clash with Spain.
The European team demonstrated their dominance early, with Timothy Castagne forcing a save from US goalkeeper Matt Freese in the opening minute. Belgium took the lead when Charles De Ketelaere tapped in after three American defenders hesitated to intercept Leandro Trossard’s cross. Although Malik Tillman briefly leveled the score for the US with a deflected free-kick, De Ketelaere quickly restored Belgium’s lead, heading in another Trossard cross just over two minutes later.
The second half brought further frustration for the US when Freese mishandled the ball outside his area, leading to substitute Hans Vanaken’s long-range shot trickling past a diving Tim Ream for Belgium’s third goal. This error, described as a “calamity,” highlighted a night of defensive lapses for the American team, who managed only one shot on target in the first half. The US forward Folarin Balogun, whose red card reprieve had generated significant pre-match discussion, was largely ineffective with only 11 touches in the first half.
Belgium’s victory means they will face Spain, who secured their quarter-final spot with a 1-0 win over Portugal in Dallas. That match saw Mikel Merino score a stoppage-time winner, ending Portugal’s tournament and marking Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup appearance. Spain’s defense has been particularly impressive, achieving six consecutive clean sheets and not conceding a goal in the tournament.
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