Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: The United States’ 1-4 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday brought the curtain down on the campaigns of all three co-hosts.
The result meant the US have joined Canada and Mexico in exiting the tournament. Canada were knocked out by Morocco in the Round of 32, while Mexico suffered a 3-2 defeat to England in the Round of 16.
Belgium ended the United States’ campaign with a commanding victory in Seattle, thanks to a brace from Charles De Ketelaere and goals from Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku. Malik Tillman scored the lone goal for the US.
Belgium took the lead in the ninth minute when Nicolan Reskin’s cross from the left side of the crowded box fell kindly for De Ketelaere, who tapped home from close range.
The United States equalized in the 31st minute as Tillman’s free kick from outside the box took a slight deflection and sailed past a stranded Thibaut Courtois.
Belgium regained the lead after two minutes. Leandro Trossard delivered a dangerous volley from the left edge of the box. De Ketelaere headed home from close range to restore his side’s advantage.
The Red Devils extended their lead in the 57th minute after a costly error by US goalkeeper Matt Freese. Maxim De Cuyper intercepted the loose ball and squared it to Vanaken, who calmly slotted into an empty net. Tim Ream was well positioned to clear the danger but completely missed the ball.
Lukaku sealed Belgium’s emphatic victory in the third minute of stoppage time after Chris Richards lost possession near his own penalty area. The veteran striker had ample time to pick his spot before firing home.
Belgium will face Spain in the quarterfinals in Los Angeles on Saturday morning.
