Home / Sports / USA vs. Belgium: A World Cup Quarterfinal Showdown
USA vs. Belgium: A World Cup Quarterfinal Showdown
6 Jul
Summary
- The USMNT advanced to the Round of 16 after winning Group D.
- Belgium staged a remarkable comeback against Senegal to reach this stage.
- The USMNT will be without key scorer Folarin Balogun due to a red card.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup continues with a highly anticipated Round of 16 clash between the United States and Belgium. The USMNT earned their place by winning Group D, showcasing strong offensive performances, including a 4-1 victory over Paraguay and a 2-0 win against Bosnia-Herzegovina in the previous round.
However, the United States will be without their leading scorer, Folarin Balogun, who was controversially red-carded in their last match. Balogun has scored three goals for the USMNT in the tournament. His absence will likely see Ricardo Pepi step into the starting lineup.
Belgium advanced after a thrilling comeback against Senegal in the Round of 32, securing a victory in extra time. Despite leading in attempts on goal throughout the tournament, Belgium has struggled with converting chances into goals, scoring just eight goals in regulation play.
The USMNT has demonstrated efficiency, exceeding their expected goals value and showing a stellar defense. Belgium, while also strong defensively, has shown fewer pressures. The match is expected to be a close contest, with the United States predicted to win 2-1.