Live World Cup: U.S. vs. Belgium

Follow the live updates and highlights as the U.S. battles Belgium in Seattle during the World Cup round-of-16. The match, aired on Fox and Telemundo, is in progress.

Game Status

Belgium leads 3-1 in the 80th minute. Without Christian Pulisic, who is injured, the U.S. struggles to create consistent offense. Belgium continuously disrupts U.S. scoring efforts. A notable chance arose in the 79th minute when Sebastian Berhalter’s shot narrowly missed the goal.

Play Analysis

Belgium scored its third goal in the 57th minute when Hans Vanaken capitalized on a misjudgment by U.S. goalkeeper Matt Freese. Pulisic’s injury and subsequent replacement by Berhalter compounded the U.S. problems.

Gio Reyna replaced Sergiño Dest at the start of the second half, aiming to revive U.S. offensive strategies. The U.S. showed pressure but found Belgium’s defense robust.

U.S. Challenges

At halftime, Belgium held a 2-1 lead, benefiting from Charles De Ketelaere’s two goals. Despite Malik Tillman’s tying goal, Belgium responded swiftly to reclaim the lead. U.S. player Folarin Balogun had attempts thwarted by Belgium’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Belgium scored initially in the ninth minute through De Ketelaere. The U.S. defense faltered, gifting Belgium early dominance. Freese’s early save prevented Belgium’s immediate control.

Team Background

The U.S. seeks to reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time since 2002. These teams previously met in Brazil’s round of 16 in 2014, with Belgium prevailing. FIFA’s revocation of Balogun’s suspension improved U.S. prospects.

Folarin Balogun, starting as expected, is pivotal to the U.S. strategy against Belgium.