Belgium dismantled the United States 4-1 in Seattle on Monday night, sending the co-hosts crashing out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the Round of 16. The defeat marks a bitter end for a USMNT squad that entered the tournament with high expectations after a promising group stage.
Belgium's emphatic victory was fueled by a relentless attack, with the Red Devils scoring three times in the second half to put the game out of reach. The match was marred by controversy when an American player received a red card, leaving the hosts shorthanded and unable to mount a comeback.
The loss eliminates the USA from the tournament and leaves the team facing a lengthy cycle of reconstruction ahead of the 2030 World Cup. Meanwhile, Belgium advances to the quarterfinals, where they will face a yet-to-be-determined opponent as they chase their first-ever World Cup title.
With the 2026 tournament now over for the United States, attention turns to the USMNT's long-term outlook. Analysts point to an aging core—Christian Pulisic and other key figures will be in their 30s by 2030—raising questions about player development, coaching continuity, and the federation's strategic direction.
England also progressed, beating Mexico 3-2 in Mexico City despite playing with 10 men for much of the second half. The win keeps England on course for a potential semifinal matchup, though some traveling fans voiced displeasure, telling Yahoo Sports that "America hosting the final is a joke" in reference to the tournament's final venue being in the United States.