USMNT Meets Belgium in 2026 World Cup Last-16 Test as Balogun Returns
Updated
Updated · New York Post · Jul 6
USMNT Meets Belgium in 2026 World Cup Last-16 Test as Balogun Returns
3 articles · Updated · New York Post · Jul 6
Summary
Monday’s Seattle match gives the United States its biggest World Cup knockout chance since the 2002 quarterfinals, with a win sending it back to the last eight on home soil.
Balogun’s reinstatement reshapes the matchup after Belgium spent the week preparing without him, while a pro-U.S. crowd is expected to amplify the Americans’ edge.
57.1% U.S. possession versus Belgium’s 57.6% suggests a different game from earlier rounds, with Mauricio Pochettino likely needing quicker counterattacks and cleaner buildup against Belgium’s counter-press.
32nd-ranked Belgium defense by expected goals allowed offers openings, but Jérémy Doku, Kevin De Bruyne and tournament-leading shot volume make containing the wings and transition attacks the central U.S. task.