Belgium advanced to the 2026 World Cup quarter-finals with a commanding 4-1 victory over co-hosts United States on Tuesday, as Charles De Ketelaere’s brace proved decisive amid a storm of controversy over officiating.
Folarin Balogun appeared set for a red card early in the match, but the decision was dramatically reversed in what reports described as a high-level intervention. Despite the reprieve, the Americans struggled to contain a clinical Belgian side at Lumen Field.
De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the ninth minute before restoring Belgium’s lead shortly after Malik Tillman equalised. Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku added further goals to seal a convincing win, exposing defensive lapses in the USA rearguard.
The result ends the home nation’s run in the tournament, with Belgium progressing thanks to superior efficiency despite lower possession.
The officiating debate is expected to dominate discussions in the aftermath.
