Belgium crush USMNT to reach quarter‑finals

Belgium swept aside the United States with a commanding 4-1 victory in Dallas, ending the co‑hosts’ hopes of reaching their first World Cup quarter‑final since 2002. Much of the pre‑match focus centred on Folarin Balogun, cleared to play after his suspension was lifted, yet Belgium seized control immediately. Matt Freese denied Timothy Castagne inside the opening minute, but the pressure told when Nicolas Raskin’s driving run set up Charles De Ketelaere for a simple ninth‑minute finish. Malik Tillman briefly restored parity with a deflected free‑kick, only for De Ketelaere to head Belgium back in front moments later.

Mauricio Pochettino’s defensive frustrations grew, and his halftime changes failed to spark improvement. Belgium capitalised on hesitant US play, with Hans Vanaken curling in a superb long‑range strike after Freese’s misjudged rush. Romelu Lukaku added a late fourth to seal a comprehensive win, eliminating all three 2026 hosts and sending Belgium on to face Spain.