Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
USMNT vs Belgium will bring one of the biggest tests of the United States’ FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, with a Round of 16 meeting in Seattle on Monday offering a place in the quarter-finals.
The United States can match its second-best World Cup finish with a win, but Belgium arrive with tournament pedigree, attacking form and a strong base in Washington.
The clash comes during another dramatic knockout storyline, with Cristiano Ronaldo confirming his last World Cup before Portugal face Spain.
Belgium Bring World Cup History
Belgium’s best World Cup finish came in 2018, when the Red Devils placed third after wins over England, Japan and Brazil.
Their only defeat in that tournament came against eventual champions France in the semi-finals.
Belgium also beat the United States 5-2 in a March friendly, although both squads have changed since that match.
Weston McKennie scored first for the United States that day, before Belgium struck five unanswered goals.
Red Devils Find Scoring Touch
Belgium started the group stage slowly with draws against Egypt and Iran.
Their attack came alive in a 5-1 win over New Zealand, with Leandro Trossard scoring twice and adding an assist.
The Round of 32 win over Senegal was even more dramatic.
Belgium trailed 2-0 before scoring twice late in regulation, then won 3-2 in extra time through a Youri Tielemans penalty.
Seattle Base Could Matter
The match will feel like a home occasion for the United States, but Belgium have also spent much of the tournament near Seattle.
The Red Devils based themselves in Renton, Washington, and have already played multiple matches in Seattle.
That familiarity may help offset the travel edge usually enjoyed by a host nation.
Belgium also still carry pieces of their Golden Generation, with Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois part of the squad.
Younger players such as Jeremy Doku and captain Youri Tielemans give Belgium speed, energy and a new shape around the remaining veterans.
Official tournament updates are available through FIFA.