The United States face arguably their toughest challenge of the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far as they take on Belgium in the Round of 16. The hosts have captured the imagination of their supporters with a string of impressive performances, but Mauricio Pochettino’s side must now find a way past a Belgium team packed with experience and attacking quality if they are to keep their dream of a deep World Cup run alive.
USA Team News
The United States have been dealt a major setback ahead of their Round of 16 meeting with Belgium, with Folarin Balogun unavailable through suspension. The striker, who has scored three goals during the tournament, was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina and will miss one of the team’s biggest matches of the campaign.
Mauricio Pochettino is expected to hand Ricardo Pepi the responsibility of leading the line. The PSV Eindhoven forward is no stranger to the starting XI, having started during the group stage when Balogun was rested.
Despite losing one of their most dangerous attacking players, the USMNT remain full of confidence after an impressive run throughout the tournament. Pochettino will be hoping his squad’s depth and tactical discipline can help the hosts secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Belgium Team News
Belgium booked their place in the Round of 16 after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Senegal. Rudi Garcia’s side showed tremendous character, fighting back from a two-goal deficit to complete a memorable comeback and keep their World Cup dream alive.
Romelu Lukaku was the hero of the night, making a decisive impact off the bench with a crucial goal that shifted the momentum in Belgium’s favour. His performance could earn the veteran striker a place in the starting lineup against the United States.
The Red Devils will also rely on the experience of their senior players as they aim to make another deep run at the World Cup. After a disappointing group-stage exit in 2022, Belgium are determined to equal—or even surpass—their third-place finish in 2018.
Predicted Lineups
USA: Freese (GK); Freeman, Ream, Richards; Dest, Adams, Tillman, Robinson; McKennie, Pulisic, Pepi.
Belgium: Courtois (GK); Meunier, Mechele, Theate, Castagne; Tielemans, Raskin; Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard; Lukaku.
Score Prediction
This promises to be one of the most evenly matched ties in the Round of 16. The United States have impressed with their organization, energy, and defensive resilience throughout the tournament, while Belgium possess the experience and individual quality capable of deciding matches in crucial moments.
Balogun’s suspension is undoubtedly a significant blow for the hosts, but with Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Ricardo Pepi leading the attack, the Americans still have enough quality to trouble Belgium’s defence.
Belgium, however, boast world-class talent across the pitch. With Kevin De Bruyne pulling the strings in midfield and Romelu Lukaku providing a focal point in attack, the Red Devils have the firepower to edge what is expected to be a highly competitive contest.
Predicted Score: USA 2-3 Belgium
Contact Us :
LiveChat : W88 Malaysia
Telegram: W88Malaysia