The United States became the third and final host nation to be eliminated from the World Cup after a 4-1 defeat to Belgium in Seattle. All three host nations—USA, Canada, and Mexico—have now exited the tournament.
Controversy Surrounds Balogun Before Kickoff
Much of the pre-match talk centered on Folarin Balogun, who controversially escaped suspension for a red card after intervention by former President Donald Trump. The decision sparked debate, but it was Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere who dominated the headlines with a first-half brace.
De Ketelaere's Double Puts Belgium Ahead
Belgium started brightly and almost scored through Timothy Castagne, whose effort was saved by Matt Freese. Youri Tielemans then missed a presentable chance. The breakthrough came when De Ketelaere tapped home from Nicolas Raskin's low cross. The USA equalized on the half-hour mark through Malik Tillman's deflected free kick, but Belgium responded immediately: De Ketelaere nodded home Leandro Trossard's cross to restore the lead. Dodi Lukebakio headed wide, keeping the score at 2-1 at halftime.
Second-Half Collapse Seals USA's Fate
A third goal came after the break due to a goalkeeping error. Freese hesitated outside his penalty area, allowing Hans Vanaken to steal the ball and convert into an empty net from range. Star player Christian Pulisic was stretchered off midway through the second half. Romelu Lukaku added a fourth late on after more defensive mistakes, sealing Belgium's spot in the quarter-finals against Spain.
Mauricio Pochettino's side will reflect on a memorable campaign soured by the controversial Balogun row and a miserable last-16 performance.
