The U.S. men’s national team was eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing to Belgium 4-1 in the Round of 16 on Monday, July 6, at Lumen Field in Seattle.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino named an unchanged starting XI and allowed Folarin Balogun to play after his suspension was lifted by FIFA.
Belgium took the lead at the first whistle and increased the pressure from the early stages, with Charles de Quetelaere scoring the opening goal in the 9th minute. A failure to clear the ball from their own box led to a simple tap-in and the opening goal of the game.
Malik Tillman tied the game for the USA with his second free kick goal of the tournament just after the 30th minute. However, just two minutes later, the Red Devils regained the lead with another goal from De Ketelaele.
Coming out of the halftime break, the Americans gained momentum toward the tying goal, making a splash near the opponent’s goal. However, a disastrous mistake by goalkeeper Matt Frees allowed Belgium to concede a third goal that effectively ended the match. Romelu Lukaku added his fourth goal in stoppage time, ending America’s run at the home World Cup.
Let’s take a look at how American players performed when they lost.
USMNT Player Ratings
GK: Matt Freeze – 3
The catastrophic mistake sank the team’s momentum in the second half and effectively destroyed any chance of a comeback.
RWB: Serginho Dest – 3.5
He seemed nervous and no matter what he tried, it didn’t work and he couldn’t help the team going forward. He was sent off at half-time due to his poor performance.
RCB: Alex Freeman – 5
There were some questionable moments in the build-up play and possession. There were no notable mistakes on defense.
CCB: Chris Richards – 4.5
He was brought down several times and handed the ball over to Lukaku for a last-minute goal.
LCB: Tim Ream – 3.5
For the second goal, De Quetelaele put in a dunk, and Freeze’s blunder prevented him from clearing the shank shot.
LWB: Anthony Robinson – 5
His team successfully advanced to the front several times. He was able to increase his width and options with his few attacking chances.
CM: Tyler Adams – 5
Adams wasn’t able to flash his usual energy in the midfield. As a result, the entire midfield was overrun.
CM: Malik Tillman – 7
The only USMNT player who didn’t get scared on the field or look like this opportunity was too big for them. Sure, his free-kick goal was fortunately deflected, but he was still the only attacking player who was sharp and full of ideas in possession.
RAM: Weston McKennie – 4
A very bad first half where he seemed nervous and kept trying and missing first passes without any pressure. For him personally, it was an unforgettable end to a great tournament.
Ram: Christian Pulisic – 4.5
In the biggest game of the tournament, the United States needed its best player to step up. Instead, Pulisic was a complete non-factor, limping off with another injury early in the second half.
ST: Folarin Balogun – 5
When the opportunity presented itself, he came alive and showed great performance. His hold-up play was also a plus. A missed chance late in the first half turned into a big moment that ultimately cost the team.
Sub: Gio Reyna – 5.5
After coming on at half-time, a bit of sparkle and creativity was added. It looked like he was leading the comeback until Freeze’s mistake sucked all the momentum out of the stadium.
Sub: Sebastian Berhalter – 5
It was the closest to the second goal. He may not be the cleanest or most talented player with the ball, but he brings energy every time he steps on the field.
Sub: Ricardo Pepi – 5
There was no particular impact on the team after joining. He appeared to be a makeshift winger/retreat forward, but it didn’t work.
Sub: Haji Wright – NR
Participated in the 90th minute.
Sub: Max Alfsten – NR
Participated in the 90th minute.
