USMNT Faces Belgium in World Cup Round of 16

The United States men’s national team (USMNT) aims to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. Their opponent is Belgium, with the match scheduled for the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup.

Belgium, known as the Red Devils, has a track record against the USMNT. They defeated the U.S. 2-1 at the 2014 World Cup in the Round of 16. More recently, Belgium won 5-2 in an international friendly this March.

USMNT defender Alex Freeman recognizes Belgium’s quality but remains focused on maintaining the team’s style. “We know the quality they have,” Freeman said in an interview with Roger Bennett for “Men in Blazers.” “For us, it’s about playing the way we want to play: pressing, controlling the ball, and being direct.”

Freeman was young during the 2014 loss to Belgium, but the memory lingers for some teammates. Despite this, Freeman insists, “We want revenge—not only for 2014 but for the recent defeat. It’s about achieving a different impact and result.”

The match between Belgium and the USMNT will take place in Seattle on Monday, July 6.