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Belgium defeats USA 4-1 to advance to World Cup quarter-finals
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Belgium eliminated the United States from their home World Cup with a 4-1 victory, secured by Charles De Ketelaere's two goals. This win means Belgium will face Spain in the quarter-finals, while the US exits the tournament in the round of 16. The match was preceded by controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun's one-game suspension, which US President Donald Trump asked FIFA to review, leading to its reversal. Despite this, Belgium's coach Rudi Garcia made surprising lineup choices, benching key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku. De Ketelaere scored early, followed by a goal from Malik Tillman for the US. However, De Ketelaere quickly restored Belgium's lead. A goalkeeping error by Matt Freese and a late goal from Romelu Lukaku sealed the win for Belgium. The decision to lift Balogun's ban was criticized globally, but the Seattle crowd enthusiastically supported him. The US team's performance was described as flat, with their defense appearing nervous and midfield outgunned. Christian Pulisic left the game due to injury, further diminishing US hopes. Chris Richards' error in stoppage time allowed Lukaku to score the final goal.
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