Final score
1:4
1:2
,
0:2
-
Malik Tillman
- Charles De Ketelaere
- Charles De Ketelaere
-
Hans Vanaken
- Romelu Lukaku
NEWS
USA off form after World Cup controversies: "It wasn't our day"
The USA fail to build on previous strong performances in the Round of 16 and are deservedly eliminated by a strong Belgium side.
With the USA, the last remaining World Cup host, alongside Mexico and Canada, is eliminated from the tournament (to the match report >>>).
The Belgians were not thrown off by the controversy surrounding US striker Folarin Balogun and celebrated a convincing 4-1 victory.
On the US side, however, disappointment prevails. After convincing performances in the group stage and reaching the Round of 16, the team had set its sights on at least the quarter-finals at their home World Cup.
Coach Pochettino appeared resigned after the elimination: "We didn't find our way into the game from the start. We conceded goals too quickly. I have to congratulate Belgium. It wasn't our day, and that's the reality."
USA off form
Right from the start, Belgium was clearly the better team and deservedly took an early lead against a reserved American side.
The strong US team from previous World Cup appearances was barely recognizable after the controversies and numerous media reports surrounding Balogun.
A huge blunder by goalkeeper Freese was emblematic of the Americans' performance.
The often-discussed Balogun barely made an appearance and only had one chance to score a consolation goal in the final phase.
Garcia praises his team
On the other hand, Belgian coach Garcia praised his team's dedicated performance:
"We showed that Belgium is a great football nation. The players were outstanding and executed the match plan perfectly. We had the game under control for the entire match."
