FIFA WC: Belgium crush USA 4-1, storm into quarter-finals

Seattle: Host United States crashed out of the FIFA World Cup in the Round of 16 after suffering a crushing 4-1 defeat to Belgium, ending their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals for the first time since 2002. Charles De Ketelaere starred with a brace as Belgium dominated from the opening whistle in a match overshadowed by controversy even before kickoff.

The biggest talking point ahead of the game was FIFA's decision to overturn the suspension of American striker Folarin Balogun, who had been sent off against Bosnia. According to the report, the reversal came following an extraordinary intervention by US President Donald Trump, allowing Balogun to feature against Belgium despite Belgium's appeal and high-level objections.

Belgium took the lead in the ninth minute when De Ketelaere finished off a pass from Nicolas Raskin. The United States briefly drew level in the 31st minute after Malik Tillman's free-kick deflected off Hans Vanaken into the net. However, Belgium restored their lead just two minutes later as De Ketelaere headed home Leandro Trossard's cross.

The hosts' hopes faded further in the second half when goalkeeper Matt Freese's costly error enabled Vanaken to score from a De Ketelaere assist. Substitute Romelu Lukaku sealed the emphatic victory with a stoppage-time goal.

With Mexico and Canada already eliminated, the United States had been the only remaining host nation in the tournament. Mauricio Pochettino's side produced a disappointing display in front of their home fans, while Belgium advanced to a quarter-final showdown against Spain, who eliminated Portugal.