NEW YORK — The United States advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 round of 16 and will face Belgium in a knockout match, organizers confirmed on Wednesday.
The U.S. men's national team secured its place in the last 16 following strong group-stage performances at the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Belgium, a perennial contender, also progressed from its group, setting up the matchup scheduled for Monday, July 6, at Seattle's Lumen Field.
FIFA confirmed the round-of-16 pairing after the completion of group play. The United States, under coach Mauricio Pochettino, will enter the contest as one of the host nations seeking a deep run on home soil. Belgium advanced despite a challenging group that included a notable comeback victory.
The fixture marks the second World Cup meeting between the two sides in recent tournaments. The teams last faced each other at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where Belgium advanced in extra time.
U.S. Soccer officials expressed confidence in the team's preparations. "This is a great opportunity for our players to compete at the highest level," a federation spokesperson said in a statement.
Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco noted the challenge ahead. "The U.S. has home advantage and quality throughout the squad," he told reporters after his team's group-stage exit from contention for first place in its bracket.
Ticket sales for the Seattle match have been strong, according to venue operators, reflecting high interest in the clash between the host nation and a European side ranked among FIFA's top teams.
The round of 16 begins this weekend across multiple U.S. venues. Winners will advance to the quarterfinals, with the tournament final set for July in New Jersey.
No injuries or major squad concerns were reported for either side in the lead-up to the match, though final lineups will be confirmed closer to kickoff. Folarin Balogun remains a key attacking option for the U.S. despite suspension concerns from earlier play.
The matchup underscores the growing competitiveness of the U.S. program as it benefits from home-crowd support throughout the competition. Belgium will look to leverage its experience in high-stakes knockout games.
