KATHMANDU, June 7: Belgium cruised into the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 4-1 victory over co-hosts the United States in their round of 16 clash.
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The win sets up a blockbuster quarterfinal showdown against Spain after Belgium produced a dominant display from the opening whistle. For the United States, backed by home supporters, it was a disappointing exit from the tournament.
Romelu Lukaku sealed the victory deep into stoppage time, scoring in the 90+3rd minute to make it 4-1.
Belgium had extended their lead in the 57th minute through Hans Vanaken. Earlier, Charles De Ketelaere restored Belgium's advantage in the 32nd minute by scoring his second goal of the match, making it 2-1. He had also opened the scoring in the ninth minute.
The United States had briefly drawn level in the 31st minute through Malik Tillman. His effort took a deflection off Hans Vanaken's header, wrong-footing Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois before finding the back of the net.
Belgium responded almost immediately. Leandro Trossard delivered a cross from the left, and De Ketelaere rose above Chris Richards and Tim Ream to head home his second goal, putting Belgium back in front.
