AFCON 2025
Belgium ended the United States’ World Cup dream with a commanding 4-1 win in Seattle, dominating the co-hosts from start to finish in their Round of 16 tie.
Charles De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the ninth minute, tapping home after Nicolas Raskin’s cross evaded a lax American defense. The early goal silenced a lively home crowd.
Malik Tillman briefly levelled things for the USA past the half-hour mark, converting a deflected free-kick for the Americans’ first shot of the match and sparking hope of a fightback.
Belgium responded almost immediately. De Ketelaere completed his brace within two minutes of the equaliser, restoring the lead and snuffing out any momentum shift.
Hans Vanaken added a third in the second half after a hesitant American clearance, pouncing on the loose ball to make it 3-1 and put the result out of reach.
Christian Pulisic limped off with an injury soon after, compounding the USA’s troubles as their attacking threat faded further.
Romelu Lukaku sealed the rout with a clinical finish in stoppage time, continuing to add to his tally as Belgium’s record goalscorer.
The defeat ended the USA’s bid for a first World Cup quarter-final since 2002. Belgium advances to face Spain in Los Angeles on Friday, reaching the last eight for the third straight tournament.
