Highlights:
Belgium moved into a commanding position in their World Cup Round of 16 match against the United States, opening up a 3-1 lead after withstanding a brief first-half fightback at Seattle Stadium.
Belgium set the tone from the opening minute, forcing United States goalkeeper Matt Freese into an early save before taking the lead in the 10th minute. Nicolas Raskin squared the ball for Charles De Ketelaere, who finished from close range to put Belgium ahead.
The United States responded after a hydration break, drawing level in the 31st minute through Malik Tillman. His free kick deflected off Hans Vanaken, who had replaced the injured Amadou Onana earlier in the match, wrong-footing the Belgium goalkeeper to make it 1-1.
Belgium restored their advantage just two minutes later. De Ketelaere rose above Tim Ream to head home his second goal of the match and give Belgium a 2-1 lead before half-time.
United States coach Mauricio Pochettino made a tactical change during the interval, introducing Gio Reyna for Sergiño Dest as his side switched formation in search of an equaliser.
The Americans began the second half with greater attacking intent but suffered a setback when a mistake by Freese allowed Belgium to increase their advantage. The goalkeeper failed to clear a long ball, leaving Vanaken with a simple finish into an empty net to make it 3-1.
The United States were dealt another blow shortly afterwards when Christian Pulisic was forced off injured and replaced by Sebastian Berhalter.
Belgium then reinforced their attack in the 67th minute, introducing Romelu Lukaku and Jérémy Doku as they looked to protect their two-goal advantage and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
With time running out, the United States faced the challenge of overturning a two-goal deficit without captain Pulisic, while Belgium remained in control of the contest.
FIFA World Cup 2026
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