The U.S. national team is gearing up for a massive World Cup showdown with Belgium in a must-win match that will give the home team a berth in the 2026 quarterfinals. A win over Belgium would not only break a long losing streak, but progress in football’s most prestigious competition would also break some other stats.
Folarin Balogun received a red card in the USA’s 2-0 win against Bosnia and Herzegovina, but thanks to a one-match suspension, the team’s top scorer is available for their next game against Belgium. Here’s what a win in Seattle means on July 6:
Can the United States beat Belgium in the World Cup for the first time since 1930?
The USA won Belgium’s first World Cup in 1930, beating them 3-0 in Uruguay, but lost 2-1 in extra time in Brazil during the 2014 tournament. However, even in the loss, Team USA was praised for a strong performance, with goalkeeper Tim Howard making a team-high 16 saves. Away from the World Cup, Belgium beat the USA 5-2 earlier this year, but if the home side can show the same spirit as in previous battles, they could beat Belgium at the World Cup for the first time in 96 years.
What does the win over Belgium mean for Mauricio Pochettino’s legacy?
“Great moments come from great opportunities,” said Mauricio Pochettino in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup, echoing Kurt Russell’s iconic “Coach Herb Brooks” speech in the movie “Miracle.”
Indeed, it’s not just the players who will be praying for a win in Seattle. The USA coach knows that a good result will strengthen him one of the most successful coaches of the national teambecause beating Belgium means the team’s biggest breakthrough in the 2002 World Cup.
What if the United States makes it to the quarterfinals?
Getting past Belgium would take the national team to their first World Cup quarter-final in 24 years. Back in 2002, they were beaten 1 nil by Germany at that stage and haven’t been there since. With a complete side and an exciting host nation, The match between the participants and Belgium became the hottest ticket in the citywith tickets at Lumen Field reaching record levels. The average price of a place is now $2,500.
Team USA certainly has the momentum to go even further at the World Cup on Monday, we hope the result will be another “great moment” for soccer fans.
