Belgium Cruise Past USA to Face Spain in Quarterfinals

Belgium secured a commanding 4-1 victory over the United States in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, advancing to a quarterfinal clash against Spain. The win, powered by a brace from Charles De Ketelaere and a late goal from Romelu Lukaku, eliminated the USA as the final co-host nation to exit the tournament.

De Ketelaere opened the scoring for Belgium in the first half, but Malik Tillman equalized for the USA with a deflected free-kick. Belgium quickly regained the lead through De Ketelaere's second goal just before halftime. Hans Vanaken extended Belgium's advantage in the second half following a goalkeeping error by USA's Matt Freese.

Romelu Lukaku came off the bench to score in stoppage time, marking his third consecutive World Cup match with a goal. De Ketelaere was named Player of the Match for his decisive performance. The USA's exit means all three co-host nations, Canada, Mexico, and the United States, have been eliminated in the Round of 16.

Belgium's victory sets up a quarterfinal meeting with Spain on July 10 at Los Angeles Stadium. Spain advanced after defeating Portugal in their Round of 16 match.

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Lukaku scored in his third consecutive FIFA World Cup match for the first time in his career, while De Ketelaere was named Player of the Match after his two-goal performance.