Charles De Ketelaere’s two goals in the first half, along with Hans Vanaken’s first World Cup goal and a late strike by Romelu Lukaku, secured Belgium’s 4-1 victory over the USA, propelling them to the quarter-finals. The USA, as co-hosts, became the last to exit the tournament after Canada and Mexico were eliminated in the Round of 16.
Belgium has maintained an unbeaten streak since March 20, 2025, following a 3-1 loss to Ukraine in the 2024–25 UEFA Nations League promotion/relegation play-offs, which was also Rudi Garcia’s debut match as head coach. With 12 wins and six draws in various competitions, including FIFA World Cup and UEFA World Cup qualification matches, Belgium has showcased dominance with a remarkable +40 goal difference in 17 games.
In their seventh encounter with the USMNT, Belgium continued their winning streak, with the USA losing seven consecutive matches against the Red Devils. Despite a promising start by the USA, Belgium took the lead through Charles De Ketelaere’s tap-in after a chaotic box situation created by Leandro Trossard’s delivery.
The momentum shifted briefly when Malik Tillman’s free-kick deflection equalized for the USA, but De Ketelaere’s second goal swiftly restored Belgium’s lead. A defensive error by the USA allowed Vanaken to extend Belgium’s advantage before Lukaku sealed the victory in stoppage time. Belgium will face Spain in the quarter-finals at Los Angeles Stadium on July 11.
