Quarter-finals set as Belgium eliminate USA and Spain end Ronaldo’s Dream
USA: Belgium swept aside co-hosts the United States 4-1 to book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals, bringing the hosts’ campaign to an emphatic end.
The build-up to the Round of 16 clash had been dominated by controversy surrounding Folarin Balogun. The striker’s suspension was overturned after FIFA reviewed his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina following an appeal, allowing him to feature against Belgium. The decision sparked criticism ahead of the knockout tie, but Belgium responded in the best possible way on the pitch.
A clinical performance saw Charles De Ketelaere score twice, while Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku also found the net to seal a convincing victory and send Belgium into the last eight.
Earlier, Spain ended Portugal’s World Cup hopes with a dramatic 1-0 victory, as Mikel Merino struck a stoppage-time winner to eliminate Cristiano Ronaldo in what the Portuguese legend had said would be his final World Cup appearance.
England also secured their place in the quarter-finals after a thrilling 3-2 victory over co-hosts Mexico. The Three Lions will now face Norway in the last eight, while attention has also turned to the fitness of midfielder Jordan Henderson, who suffered an injury during the post-match celebrations in Mexico City.
