The United States are out of the World Cup after Belgium eliminated the co-hosts in the last 16 at Seattle Stadium on Monday night. The Americans were aiming to reach the quarter-finals for the first time since 2002, but they appeared nervous and unsettled from the outset, quickly falling behind when Charles De Ketelaere poked home in the ninth minute.
US Fight Back but Belgium Strikes Again
The Americans fought back, and Malik Tillman scored from a direct free-kick for the second consecutive match in the 31st minute. However, the goal did little to calm the US, and Belgium scored just two minutes later. On the sideline, a frustrated Mauricio Pochettino kicked over some water bottles. Things would worsen for the US.
Second Half Collapse
In the 57th minute, goalkeeper Matt Freese rushed out of his area to collect a long ball but lost possession, allowing Hans Vanaken to roll the ball into an empty net. Romelu Lukaku completed the victory with a smart finish in added time, sealing a 4-1 win for Belgium.
Controversial Buildup
The US elimination came after a remarkable buildup to the match when striker Folarin Balogun had his red card from the previous round suspended, allowing him to start against Belgium. FIFA's decision to suspend the red card came after lobbying from Donald Trump, which led to backlash from around the football world. According to reports, the intervention was widely criticized.
Co-Hosts All Eliminated
The defeat means this World Cup's three co-hosts – Mexico, the US and Canada – have all been eliminated. Belgium will now face Spain in the quarter-finals.
