The United States defeated Belgium 4-1 and was eliminated from the World Cup. This build-up was marred by the controversy over Folarin Balogun’s suspension.
After just nine minutes, Charles de Ketelaer scored the first goal from close range, giving the Belgian the ball. That rehydration break helped shift momentum for the Americans, who tied the game 31 minutes later with a deflected free kick from Malik Tillman.
But the American home crowd barely stopped celebrating the goal before falling behind again. Leandro Trossard delivered a cross to De Quetelaele’s head, who nodded it past American goalkeeper Matt Freese.
The Americans were looking to tie the game again, but in the 57th minute, Freeze was caught by De Quetelaere 30 yards short of the goal line, stole the ball on his toe and threaded the ball to Hans Vanaken, who threaded the ball into an empty net from 25 yards out.
At 3-1, Balogun, whose controversial appearance despite an initial suspension, caused much anger, but had little impact on the match, apart from a one-on-one where he forced a strong save from Thibaut Courtois when the score was 3-1. That was as much of a threat as the hosts received while losing 3-1.
Belgium’s fourth goal came as a result of Pochettino’s even poorer defending. They tried to play at the back but Crystal Palace’s Chris Richards gave the ball away to Romelu Lukaku.
The former Manchester United and Chelsea ace gleefully picked up the pieces and fired powerfully into the far corner to seal the result. They will face Spain in the quarterfinals on Friday, July 10th.
The United States will have to lick its wounds while enduring the inevitable outside noise that will result from the turmoil that does not result in Balogun’s suspension.
