World Cup Round of 16: Belgium Dominates USA After Spain Edges Portugal
The World Cup's knockout stage heated up Monday with a thrilling clash between Spain and Portugal. Spain, showing why they are considered one of the tournament's strongest sides, controlled much of the match but struggled to find the net.
It wasn’t until stoppage time that Mikel Merino broke through, connecting with a brilliant pass from Ferran Torres to secure a 1-0 victory for La Roja.
Belgium Overwhelms USA in Seattle
Later that night, Belgium handed the United States a harsh defeat at Lumen Field. Despite the lifting of Folarin Balogun’s suspension just before kickoff, the American squad couldn’t keep pace with the European powerhouse.
Charles De Ketelaere opened the scoring early in the 9th minute. The USMNT responded with a stunning free kick from Malik Tillman to level the game at 1-1 by the 31st minute. Yet Belgium struck again immediately after, as De Ketelaere found space behind the defense to put Belgium ahead.
The second half saw Belgium capitalize on a defensive blunder from goalkeeper Matt Freese and defender Tim Ream, allowing Hans Vanaken to extend the lead to 3-1. In stoppage time, Romelu Lukaku sealed the match, ending the game at 4-1.
Monday's Results
- Spain 1, Portugal 0
- Belgium 4, USA 1
USMNT’s Run Ends with Mixed Emotions
“It was unlike any other performances we've had this summer, to be honest,”
said left back Antonee Robinson. The US team, energized and cohesive for weeks, looked outmatched Monday against Belgium’s skilled lineup.
The disappointment was palpable, yet memories of their exciting play and inspiring moments lingered among fans and players alike. Their journey concluded abruptly, leaving a bitter aftertaste despite the progress shown.
Pulisic Injury Darkens Night
Shortly after conceding a poor goal, star midfielder Christian Pulisic exited the game in the 59th minute due to injury. He was replaced by Sebastian Berhalter and later received treatment on the bench, visibly upset, with attention on his lower right leg.
Defensive Errors Cost US dearly
The pivotal moment came in the 57th minute when Belgium launched a deep ball toward the U.S. goal. Despite three defenders chasing, goalkeeper Matt Freese rushed out but mishandled the ball, allowing De Ketelaere to regain possession. Tim Ream failed to block Hans Vanaken’s shot, which slowly rolled into the net, crushing the home crowd’s spirit.
Match Highlights
- Belgium scored four goals, including two by De Ketelaere.
- USA managed only one goal from Malik Tillman’s free kick.
- Belgium advances to face Spain in the quarterfinals.
Lineups and Surprises
Belgium started without stars Kevin De Bruyne and Jérémy Doku, both on the bench following an earlier comeback win. The U.S. featured a full-strength squad, with Balogun starting after FIFA suspended his ban and Pulisic returning to the attack.
Political Pressure Surrounds Scheduling
Outside the pitch, political figures influenced World Cup scheduling. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer intervened to keep England’s Round of 16 match against Mexico at its original 8 p.m. ET kickoff, resisting FIFA’s plans to move it earlier amid safety concerns over weather and fan celebrations.
