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Belgium brought the United States’ World Cup journey to a crushing halt on Monday, thrashing the tournament co-hosts 4-1 to secure a quarter-final clash against Spain.
Charles De Ketelaere netted two goals, Hans Vanaken capitalised on a massive goalkeeping error, and substitute Romelu Lukaku sealed the victory with a late stoppage-time strike.
The highly anticipated knockout match at Seattle’s Lumen Field had been dominated by pre-game controversy surrounding US forward Folarin Balogun, who failed to make an impact despite starting the game.
Balogun took the field after FIFA controversially overturned his one-match suspension following intense lobbying from US President Donald Trump.
While Belgium’s football federation legally challenged the striker’s eligibility ahead of kickoff, the regulatory body swiftly dismissed the appeal.
On the pitch, De Ketelaere opened the scoring early, and though Malik Tillman briefly equalised for the Americans with a deflected free kick, the Belgians responded instantly.
De Ketelaere restored the lead just two minutes later, and Vanaken extended it after US goalkeeper Matt Freese lost possession well outside his penalty area.
Belgium will now travel to Los Angeles to face Spain, who secured their own quarter-final berth by defeating Portugal 1-0 in Arlington, Texas.
Spanish substitute Mikel Merino scored the dramatic winning goal in the opening minute of stoppage time, ending a defensive battle between the Iberian rivals.
The defeat simultaneously ended the legendary international career of 41-year-old Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who was playing in his record-setting sixth World Cup.
The superstar striker remained a peripheral figure throughout the match as Spain heavily outshot the Portuguese squad.
After the final whistle, Ronaldo confirmed his exit from the World Cup stage but stated he would take time to contemplate his broader future in football.
