SEATTLE: Belgium ended the United States’ FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 4-1 win in the Round of 16, bringing an end to the hosts’ hopes of a deep run in the tournament.
Charles De Ketelaere scored twice early in the match as Belgium capitalised on defensive errors from the USA. Hans Vanaken added a third goal after further mistakes at the back, while Romelu Lukaku completed the victory with a late strike in the dying seconds.
The USA managed a consolation goal through Malik Tillman in the first half but struggled to contain Belgium’s attacking pressure throughout the match.
Folarin Balogun’s availability had been a major talking point before the game after FIFA cleared the striker to feature despite his red card in the Round of 32 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina. The decision had initially raised the possibility of a one-match suspension.
With the victory, Belgium advanced to the quarter-finals, where they will face Spain, who earlier defeated Portugal to secure their place in the last eight.
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