Sports

World Cup 2026: De Ketelaere Stars as Belgium Thrash USA to Reach Quarter-finals

Belgium produced a dominant display to defeat hosts United States 4-1 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Round of 16 clash, played at Lumen…

Belgium produced a dominant display to defeat hosts United States 4-1 and book their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Round of 16 clash, played at Lumen Field on Tuesday morning, saw the Red Devils outclass the Americans in front of 66,925 spectators, ending the hosts’ World Cup journey in emphatic fashion.

Belgium made a flying start when Charles De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the ninth minute, putting the visitors ahead after an impressive attacking move.

The United States responded through Malik Tillman, who levelled the score in the 31st minute to raise hopes of a comeback among the home fans.

However, Belgium restored their advantage just two minutes later as De Ketelaere struck again in the 33rd minute to complete his brace and send his side into the break with a 2-1 lead.

The Red Devils continued to dominate after the restart and extended their advantage in the 57th minute when Hans Vanaken found the back of the net to make it 3-1.

Belgium capped an outstanding performance deep into stoppage time, with Romelu Lukaku adding the fourth goal in the 90+3rd minute to seal an emphatic victory.

The convincing win sends Belgium into the quarter-finals, where they will continue their quest for World Cup glory, while the United States exit the tournament after their hopes of progressing were ended by an impressive Belgian side.

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Published July 7, 2026
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