Belgium Defeats USA 4-1 in World Cup Round of 16

On Monday, July 6, Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 in the round of 16 of the World Cup, eliminating the USA from the tournament. The match took place at Lumen Field in Seattle.

Belgium took the lead in the 9th minute through Charles De Ketelaere. The USA equalized in the 31st minute via a free kick from Malik Tillman. However, just two minutes later, De Ketelaere scored again to put Belgium ahead 2-1. In the 57th minute, Hans Vanaken extended the lead to 3-1, and Romelu Lukaku added a fourth goal in stoppage time.

With this result, the USA became the last team to be eliminated from the World Cup. Earlier in the round of 16, Canada lost to Morocco, and Mexico lost to England.

Balogun Controversy

The match was overshadowed by a scandal involving US striker Florian Balogun. The 25-year-old received a red card in the round of 32 against Bosnia and Herzegovina and, under FIFA rules, was supposed to be suspended for the match against Belgium. However, US President Donald Trump personally asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the referee's decision. As a result, Balogun's suspension was postponed, and he played against Belgium.

Before the match, Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia stated that his team would defend not only the honor of the national team but also the ethical principles and integrity of football itself.

In the quarterfinals, Belgium will face Spain, who beat Portugal 1-0.