Belgium booked their place in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after an impressive 4-1 victory over the United States in their Round of 16 clash on Tuesday.

The Red Devils made a dream start, taking the lead in the ninth minute when Charles De Ketelaere finished off a move created by Nicolas Raskin.

The Americans responded brilliantly just before the half-hour mark, with Malik Tillman curling home a superb free-kick to restore parity.

Belgium, however, regained control only two minutes later. De Ketelaere struck again, this time converting a pass from Leandro Trossard to restore his side’s advantage before the break.

The Europeans continued to dominate after halftime despite the United States enjoying more possession. Coach Domenico Tedesco’s substitutions proved effective, with Hans Vanaken, who replaced the injured Amadou Onana early in the game, extending Belgium’s lead in the 57th minute after another assist from De Ketelaere.

Romelu Lukaku completed the scoring in stoppage time, finishing calmly from Vanaken’s pass to seal a convincing 4-1 victory.

Belgium were clinical throughout the contest, registering 15 shots compared to the United States’ seven, with seven efforts on target.

Although the Americans controlled 57 percent of possession and completed more passes, they struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against Belgium’s disciplined defence.

The defeat ends the United States’ World Cup campaign, while Belgium march confidently into the last eight after producing one of their most complete performances of the tournament. De Ketelaere starred with two goals and an assist in a memorable display.