- Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 to qualify for the World Cup quarter-finals
- Charles De Ketelaere scored twice as the Americans exited the tournament on home soil
- Belgium will now face Spain in the last eight
Belgium secured a convincing 4-1 victory over the United States on Tuesday to book a place in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, where they will face Spain.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Charles De Ketelaere starred for the Red Devils with two first-half goals as the Americans bowed out of the tournament on home soil following a disappointing Round of 16 display.
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Despite the pre-match attention surrounding Folarin Balogun’s controversial return after FIFA suspended his one-match ban, Belgium dominated the contest and made the headlines with an impressive performance.
The decision to allow Balogun to feature after his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina had sparked widespread debate, but the striker was warmly received by the home supporters when his name was announced before kick-off.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia made several bold selection decisions by leaving experienced players Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku on the bench, but the gamble paid off.
The visitors took the lead in the ninth minute when Nicolas Raskin delivered a cross that exposed the American defence, allowing De Ketelaere to finish from close range.
The United States struggled to respond as Belgium controlled midfield and repeatedly threatened the hosts’ defence.
The home fans found hope just after the half-hour mark when Balogun won a free kick on the edge of the penalty area. Malik Tillman’s effort deflected off the Belgian wall before finding the back of the net to level the score.
However, Belgium restored their advantage only minutes later as De Ketelaere rose highest to head home Leandro Trossard’s cross and complete his brace before the interval.
The Americans returned for the second half with greater urgency after tactical adjustments by coach Mauricio Pochettino, but their hopes faded after a costly goalkeeping mistake.
Goalkeeper Matt Freese hesitated while attempting to clear a long ball, allowing De Ketelaere to dispossess him before Hans Vanaken calmly finished into an empty net to make it 3-1.
The setback was compounded when captain Christian Pulisic left the pitch with an injury, further weakening the hosts’ chances of mounting a comeback.
Sebastian Berhalter came close with a long-range effort, while Balogun also tested the Belgian goalkeeper, but the Americans failed to convert their opportunities.
Belgium completed the rout deep into stoppage time after Chris Richards surrendered possession to Romelu Lukaku, who made no mistake in adding the fourth goal.
The result sends Belgium into a quarter-final clash with Spain, while the United States exit the competition alongside fellow co-hosts Canada and Mexico.
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