Belgium Eliminates USA
Belgium Defeats USA 4-1, Securing World Cup Quarterfinal Match Against Spain
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Belgium demolished the United States 4-1 in the World Cup round of 16, ending America's tournament run in stunning fashion. Marca reported the result exposed deep weaknesses in the USMNT's defense and goalkeeper play, setting up a blockbuster quarterfinal between Belgium and Spain.
Charles De Ketelaere was the star of the night, scoring twice in the first half to put Belgium firmly in control. Twin Cities noted that substitute Romelu Lukaku also contributed, turning a tough match into a rout before the final whistle.
Belgium's First Half Destroyed Any US Hope
De Ketelaere scored two goals in the opening 45 minutes to put Belgium up 2-0 at halftime. Boston Globe reported that Hans Vanaken then made it 3-0 shortly after the restart. The United States never found a foothold in the game.
Belgium's third goal effectively ended the contest as a competition. The US managed a late consolation goal, but Belgium answered to make the final score 4-1. It was a commanding, professional performance from the Belgians from start to finish.
US Defense and Goalkeeper Errors Proved Costly
WPXI reported that goalkeeper Matt Freese made a critical error that contributed directly to one of Belgium's goals. Defensive lapses throughout the match gave Belgium easy chances. The US backline looked disorganized and slow to react under pressure.
Marca noted that the result exposed long-standing weaknesses in the USMNT's setup. Poor positioning and communication at the back allowed Belgium's attackers to exploit space repeatedly. It was not a one-off mistake — it was a pattern that lasted 90 minutes.
Balogun's Return Could Not Save the USMNT
Folarin Balogun returned to the squad for this match after missing earlier games. His presence was expected to boost the US attack. WPXI reported, however, that his impact was limited as Belgium's defense kept him quiet for most of the night.
The US generated very little in the way of clear scoring chances. Belgium's defensive organization made it hard for any American forward to get clean looks at goal. Balogun's return came too late to change the direction of the tournament for the US.
Belgium Now Faces Spain in a High-Stakes Quarterfinal
Belgium's 4-1 win sends them into the quarterfinals to face Spain. Marca called it a potential blockbuster clash between two of Europe's top footballing nations. Spain are one of the tournament favorites, making Belgium's path to the semifinals extremely difficult.
For the United States, the loss ends what Tampa Bay Times described as a disappointing tournament exit. The USMNT will now face tough questions about its defensive depth and goalkeeper reliability heading into the next cycle. Belgium, meanwhile, will prepare for what could be the match of the tournament.
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