Belgium delivered a statement performance in front of their own vocal support base, thrashing the United States 4-1 in Seattle to cruise into the World Cup 2026 quarter-finals.
Charles De Ketelaere set the tone early, netting twice either side of a Malick Tillman equalizer for the hosts, before Hans Vanaken restored the two-goal cushion and Romelu Lukaku added a stoppage-time fourth to complete the rout. It was a shootout that recalled Belgium’s famous 2-1 extra-time win over the USA at the 2014 World Cup — this time there was no need for extra time at all.
De Ketelaere’s brace and all-around influence earned him the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match award, capping a breakout tournament for the 25-year-old.
The result ends a spirited USA run on home soil, while Belgium march on as one of the tournament’s most in-form sides heading into the quarter-finals.