The United States is aiming to make history on home soil by reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals. However, the Stars and Stripes must first overcome Belgium, the team that eliminated them in the Round of 16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
The Round of 16 clash will take place at Seattle Stadium on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. Now under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino, the United States is determined to avenge that painful defeat in front of its home supporters. Meanwhile, Rudi Garcia’s Belgium is eager to prove that the remaining members of its golden generation still have what it takes to compete at the highest level.
The United States advanced to the Round of 16 after defeating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in the Round of 32, while Belgium secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Senegal.
As tournament hosts, the Americans are determined not to suffer another defeat against Belgium. However, they face a significant setback after losing one of their key strikers, Folarin Balogun, who received a red card in the previous match.
Pochettino is expected to have alternative tactical plans to neutralize Belgium’s attack. The United States will likely rely on Ricardo Pepi as its main striker, supported by a fully fit Christian Pulisic.
“I believe anything is possible in football if you truly believe. We respect Belgium. With the support of our fans in Seattle, I think we can be very competitive and, of course, try to win the match and advance to the next round. To achieve that, we have to perform well,” said the Argentine coach.
Belgium Full of Confidence
Belgium also enters the match with growing confidence.
The winners of Group G completed one of the tournament’s most dramatic comebacks in the Round of 32 by defeating Senegal.
Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia said that he and his players are focusing on their own preparations rather than discussing their upcoming opponents. Drawing lessons from the victory over Senegal, Garcia has reminded his squad to remain composed, as the pressure in the knockout stages will only intensify.
Although Belgium thrashed the United States 5-2 in a friendly match last March, Garcia emphasized that the atmosphere of a World Cup knockout match in Seattle will be entirely different.***
