Belgium beat the US 4-1 in the World Cup round of 16 on Monday to advance to the quarterfinals after the controversial inclusion of U.S. striker Folarin Balogun.
The match showcased a masterclass in clinical attacking football, with Belgium’s star-studded midfield controlling the tempo of the game from the opening whistle, consistently piercing through the American defensive lines with precise, fluid passing and explosive transitions.
The U.S. squad struggled to find their rhythm early on, finding themselves pinned back under relentless pressure. Belgium capitalized on these defensive vulnerabilities, striking with lethal efficiency to build a commanding lead. While the Americans showed flashes of resilience in the second half—unlocking the Belgian defense to pull one goal back and lift the spirits of their traveling supporters—it ultimately proved to be a consolation prize.
The US's elimination means all three co-hosts are out of the tournament, after Canada and Mexico also lost in the last-16.
Highlights of the Match
• De Ketelaere poached two first-half goals, in the ninth and 33rd minutes, the second coming 61 seconds after the U.S. equalised.
• Malik Tillman’s deflected free kick brought the home side level in the 31st minute.
• A horror error from goalkeeper Matt Freese handed Belgium their third goal, scored by substitute Hans Vanaken in the 57th minute.
• Romelu Lukaku added the fourth in stoppage time to complete an emphatic victory.
• Striker Balogun, who had his red card ban lifted ahead of the game, played almost the entire match but only had one threatening effort on goal.
Controversial Inclusion of Folarin Balogun
Folarin Balogun received a red card while the US was playing Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1 for stepping on the ankle of Tarik Muharemovic as the two battled for the ball, which Balogun insisted was unintentional.
FIFA rules state that a red card recipient is automatically suspended for the next game.
However, FIFA announced July 5 that it had decided to delay the ban for one year and won't implement it unless Balogun “commits another infringement of a similar nature and gravity” during that period of time.
Belgium appealed against that decision.
FIFA on Monday announced it has rejected the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA)’s appeal and would allow US striker Folarin Balogun to play in Monday’s World Cup match between the US and Belgium.
"The request was rendered inadmissible on the grounds that the RBFA is not a party to the proceedings and, as such, has no standing to appeal the decision," the agency said.
President Donald Trump confirmed on Monday that he called FIFA’s president, Gianni Infantino, about the red card and asked for a review. Infantino publicly clarified that he didn't play a role in the FIFA Disciplinary Committee's decision regarding Balogun.