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What a night of World Cup drama. Belgium pulled off a stunning extra-time comeback to eliminate Senegal, and the USMNT survived a controversial red card to beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 — setting up a blockbuster round-of-16 clash in Seattle on July 6.
Belgium 3-2 Senegal: Last-Gasp Penalty Drama
Youri Tielemans etched his name into World Cup folklore with a penalty in the 120+ minute — the latest goal ever scored in World Cup history — to complete an incredible 3-2 comeback win for Belgium.
It looked all over for the Red Devils. Senegal led 2-0 through Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr, and Belgium’s players were arguing among themselves during the hydration break. Frustrations boiled over when Tielemans and Leandro Trossard had to be separated by teammates.
But football turns quickly. Romelu Lukaku flicked one home to start the comeback, Tielemans equalized from Trossard’s cross, and then — deep into stoppage time of extra time — Tielemans was brought down by Lamine Camara. After a lengthy VAR review, the penalty was awarded. Tielemans stepped up and delivered.
Ismaila Sarr’s goal also made history — he’s now tied with Roger Milla for second-most World Cup goals by an African player (5), behind only Asamoah Gyan (6).
Belgium will now face the United States in the round of 16 on July 6 in Seattle.
USMNT 2-0 Bosnia: Balogun Scores, Gets Red, Tillman Free Kick Seals It
The USMNT advanced to the round of 16 for the second consecutive World Cup — but it came with plenty of controversy and cost.
Folarin Balogun scored his third goal of the tournament to give the U.S. a first-half lead, continuing his excellent run of form on the biggest stage. But early in the second half, Balogun was shown a straight red card after inadvertently landing on a Bosnia defender’s ankle while jumping for a ball.
The decision sparked debate, but it meant the U.S. had to play over 30 minutes with 10 men.
Enter Malik Tillman. With Bosnia pushing for an equalizer, the U.S. broke forward and Tillman curled a beautiful free kick into the top corner to seal the win.
The result means the USMNT has won its first knockout match since 2002 and will now face Belgium — a rematch of the famous 2014 round-of-16 tie where Tim Howard made 15 saves.
USMNT vs Belgium: What to Watch (July 6, Seattle)
| Match | USA vs Belgium — Round of 16 |
| Date | July 6, 2026 |
| Venue | Lumen Field, Seattle |
| Kickoff | TBD |
Key Storylines
- Balogun suspended — The U.S. must find goals without their star striker, who’s out due to red card suspension
- Revenge for 2014 — Belgium eliminated the U.S. in extra time in Brazil 12 years ago
- March friendly rematch — Belgium beat the U.S. 5-2 in March 2026, but this is knockout football
- Speed vs experience — The U.S. has the athletic edge; Belgium has the veteran quality
- Jeremy Doku vs USMNT defense — Belgium’s explosive winger is a matchup nightmare
FAQ
Can the USMNT actually beat Belgium?
Absolutely. Belgium has looked old and stagnant for long stretches of this World Cup, while the U.S. overwhelmed Paraguay and Australia with pace and pressing. Without Balogun it’s tougher, but this U.S. team has depth in attack and belief after surviving the Bosnia scare.
How controversial was the Balogun red card?
Highly. Balogun jumped for the ball and landed on a Bosnia defender’s ankle — it was unintentional, but under modern rules, landing on an opponent’s standing leg is often considered serious foul play. Expect plenty of debate before the Belgium match.
What channel is USA vs Belgium on?
Coverage will be on Fox Sports and streaming on Fubo. Check local listings for exact channels as we get closer to match day.
Final Verdict
We’re set up for a monster round-of-16 clash. Belgium has the talent and the history, but the USMNT has momentum, home crowd energy (Seattle is always loud), and something to prove. If the U.S. can score early and make Belgium chase the game, an upset is very possible.
Prediction: Belgium 2-1 USA (but don’t be surprised if this goes to extra time again).
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