Belgium delivered a commanding performance to beat co-hosts the United States 4-1 on Tuesday and secure a place in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they will face Spain.
Charles De Ketelaere starred with two goals as the Red Devils outclassed Mauricio Pochettino’s side in Seattle, ending the United States’ hopes of reaching the last eight for the first time since 2002.
The defeat also confirmed the exit of all three co-host nations, with the United States joining Mexico and Canada, who were previously eliminated by England and Morocco respectively.
Belgium took the lead in the ninth minute when Nicolas Raskin delivered a low cross that De Ketelaere converted from close range.
The hosts responded in the 31st minute after Malik Tillman’s free-kick deflected off Hans Vanaken, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Belgium regained the lead just two minutes later as De Ketelaere headed home Leandro Trossard’s cross to complete his brace.
The Red Devils stretched their advantage early in the second half after a costly mistake by United States goalkeeper Matt Freese. De Ketelaere capitalized on the error before Vanaken calmly finished from outside the box to make it 3-1.
Substitute Romelu Lukaku completed the rout in stoppage time, drilling a low shot into the far corner from a tight angle to seal Belgium’s 4-1 victory.
