How the USMNT matches up against Belgium for World Cup Round of 16 clash
The USMNT is set to face Belgium in the World Cup Round of 16, a match that could have significant implications for the sport in America. The US team will need to adapt to Belgium's style of play, which is more aggressive than their previous opponents. A win for the US could go a long way in changing the perception of soccer in the country, and the match is expected to draw record-breaking ratings.
- ▪The USMNT has not played a match of this importance since the 2002 quarterfinal loss to Germany.
- ▪Belgium's defense has shown vulnerability, ranking 32nd at the World Cup in expected goals allowed.
- ▪The US team will need to find a way to handle Belgian winger Jérémy Doku, who has the ability to create and beat players off the dribble.
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World Cup 2026 Soccer How the USMNT matches up against Belgium for World Cup Round of 16 clash By Ethan Sears Published July 6, 2026, 7:00 a.m. ET (function() { var overlay = document.getElementById("nyp-player-lcp-overlay"); if (!overlay) { return; } function hideOverlay() { overlay.remove(); } function afterDCL() { requestAnimationFrame(hideOverlay); } if (document.readyState === "loading") { document.addEventListener("DOMContentLoaded", afterDCL, { once: true }); } else { afterDCL(); } })(); See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google SEATTLE — The incredible decision by FIFA to reinstate Folarin Balogun on Sunday almost overshadowed that there is a match to be played Monday, in which 21 players aside from the U.S.
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