World Cup 2026: United States and Belgium meet in round of 16 in Seattle

The United States and Belgium meet at Lumen Field in Seattle on July 7, 2026 at 1:00 a.m. (GMT+1) for a decisive match in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup. The showdown brings together two nations that each booked their place after convincing wins in the round of 32 and offers the winner a quarter-final spot against Portugal or Spain.

The Americans, coached by Mauricio Pochettino, dominated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in their last match, thanks in particular to goals from Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman. Rudi Garcia’s Belgium, meanwhile, eliminated Senegal after extra time (3-2), powered by a strong attacking performance with goals from Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans.

The United States’ style of play is based on dynamic attacking pressure, looking to counter quickly and exploit balls in transition. For their part, the Red Devils favor technical and fast football, relying on the quality of their players to unsettle opponents. Both teams will be able to count on key figures as they try to clear this hurdle.

This match marks a crucial step for both teams, each eager to continue their ambitious run in this historic tournament jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States. The sporting stakes are high, with the winner opening a path toward a possible landmark semi-final.

Focus on the United States

Set up in a 4-3-3 formation, the American team features a balanced starting XI combining youth and experience under Mauricio Pochettino. Goalkeeper Matthew Freese is protected by a defense made up of Alexander Freeman, Chris Richards, Tim Ream and Antonee Robinson. In midfield, the trio of Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams and Malik Tillman provides both ball-winning and creativity.

The attack is built around Sergiño Dest, Folarin Balogun and Christian Pulišić, who bring pace, technique and efficiency. Balogun, a scorer in the round of 32, will nevertheless have to deal with a suspension that could limit his playing time or his influence. Players such as Giovanni Reyna, Timothy Weah and Brenden Aaronson are ready to come on and energize the American attack from the bench.

Focus on Belgium

Belgium play in a 4-2-3-1, with Rudi Garcia selecting Thibaut Courtois in goal and a defensive unit featuring Timothy Castagne, Nathan Ngoy, Brandon Mechele and Maxim De Cuyper. The double pivot in midfield is held by Nicolas Raskin and Amadou Onana, solid presences in the middle of the park.

In attack, Youri Tielemans, Leandro Trossard and Dodi Lukebakio form a technical and quick attacking trio tasked with supplying Charles De Ketelaere up front. Romelu Lukaku, although a substitute, remains a major asset who can turn the match in Belgium’s favor if needed. Belgium’s bench depth also includes Kevin De Bruyne, Axel Witsel and Jérémy Doku, giving their coach a wide tactical range.

United States

Finished 1-4 Lumen Field

Belgium

07/07/2026 01:00 · Round of 16

Round of 16 schedule

View full schedule

View match details for Canada - Morocco

04/07 Round of 16

Canada

Finished 0-3 NRG Stadium

Morocco

View match details for Paraguay - France

04/07 Round of 16

Paraguay

Finished 0-1 Lincoln Financial Field

France

View match details for Brazil - Norway

05/07 Round of 16

Brazil

Finished 1-2 MetLife Stadium

Norway

View match details for Mexico - England

06/07 Round of 16

Mexico

Finished 2-3 Estadio Banorte

England

View match details for Portugal - Spain

06/07 Round of 16

Portugal

Finished 0-1 AT&T Stadium

Spain

View match details for United States - Belgium

07/07 Round of 16

United States

Finished 1-4 Lumen Field

Belgium

View match details for Argentina - Egypt

07/07 Round of 16

Argentina

Finished 3-2 Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Egypt

View match details for Switzerland - Colombia

07/07 Round of 16

Switzerland

Penalties finished 0-0 (4-3 pens) BC Place

Colombia