2 months ago
There were rumors floating around in the spring that Bayern Munich would consider a move for Atalanta attacker Charles De Ketelaere.
The 25-year-old drew attention to himself with a strong showing in the World Cup, but it does not look like he will be joining the Bavarians any time soon:
When I was there at the press conference with Max Eberl, I thought it would be wise to ask Bayern's director of sport about the links to Charles De Ketelaere. He was laughing when I asked him if it was true or not true that the Belgian was on the list at Bayern Munich, and told me that it's "not true."
It is so odd to be in the heart of the transfer window with little-to-no hope for Bayern Munich to make a move. The roster is strong, deep, and settled and De Ketelaere, while interesting, would be a true luxury move at this point.
It can be ****** umed that the acquisition of Ismael Saibari killed any chance of Bayern Munich picking up the Belgian.
#ketelaere #move #belgian #atalanta
The 25-year-old drew attention to himself with a strong showing in the World Cup, but it does not look like he will be joining the Bavarians any time soon:
When I was there at the press conference with Max Eberl, I thought it would be wise to ask Bayern's director of sport about the links to Charles De Ketelaere. He was laughing when I asked him if it was true or not true that the Belgian was on the list at Bayern Munich, and told me that it's "not true."
It is so odd to be in the heart of the transfer window with little-to-no hope for Bayern Munich to make a move. The roster is strong, deep, and settled and De Ketelaere, while interesting, would be a true luxury move at this point.
It can be ****** umed that the acquisition of Ismael Saibari killed any chance of Bayern Munich picking up the Belgian.
#ketelaere #move #belgian #atalanta
2 months ago
Welcome to today's exclusive & comprehensive round-up of all things Bayern Munich from Bayern insider Christian Falk. Featuring updates on Luis Diaz, Benjamin Šeško, Warren Zaïre-Emery, and Givairo Read.
Are Bayern planning on taking Benjamin Šeško away from Manchester United?
Is Luis Diaz bound for Saudi Arabia?
Are Bayern going to spend their secret stash of cash this summer?
And plenty more on Harry Kane, Bradley Barcola, Charles De Ketelaere & Gabriel Bontempo
#benjamin
Are Bayern planning on taking Benjamin Šeško away from Manchester United?
Is Luis Diaz bound for Saudi Arabia?
Are Bayern going to spend their secret stash of cash this summer?
And plenty more on Harry Kane, Bradley Barcola, Charles De Ketelaere & Gabriel Bontempo
#benjamin
2 months ago
PSG have no interest in making a move for AFC Bournemouth winger Rayan (19), according to Le Parisien. The Brazilian international was rumoured to be of interest for the back-to-back UEFA Champions League winners, but those rumours have been quashed by the Ligue 1 champions. PSG had an interest in RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomandé, but the Ivory Coast international appears destined to join José Mourinho's Real Madrid side.
More movement is expected for PSG to bolster Luis Enrique's attacking options until the end of the summer transfer window. Les Parisiens have reached a €50m agreement with Ligue 1 rivals AS Monaco to sign Maghnes Akliouche. The versatile France international is expected to replace Lee Kang-in – who joined Atlético de Madrid in a €40m move – and bring competition for the right-winger to Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola.
However, the latter could be sold with Liverpool expressing an interest. The Reds are expected to submit a bid to PSG. Meanwhile, the Ligue 1 champions also need a back-up striker after parting ways with Gonçalo Ramos. 2026 World Cup winner Ferran Torres and Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere are billed as the favourites to bring depth.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
#champions #international #back
More movement is expected for PSG to bolster Luis Enrique's attacking options until the end of the summer transfer window. Les Parisiens have reached a €50m agreement with Ligue 1 rivals AS Monaco to sign Maghnes Akliouche. The versatile France international is expected to replace Lee Kang-in – who joined Atlético de Madrid in a €40m move – and bring competition for the right-winger to Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola.
However, the latter could be sold with Liverpool expressing an interest. The Reds are expected to submit a bid to PSG. Meanwhile, the Ligue 1 champions also need a back-up striker after parting ways with Gonçalo Ramos. 2026 World Cup winner Ferran Torres and Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere are billed as the favourites to bring depth.
GFFN | Bastien Cheval
#champions #international #back
2 months ago
Paris Saint-Germain are not expected to attempt to sign AFC Bournemouth's Éli Junior Kroupi (20) this summer, according to reports from RMC Sport.
Whilst seeking an attacking reinforcement to compensate for the departures of Gonçalo Ramos (24), Lee Kang-in (25) and Randal Kolo Muani (27), the Rouge et Bleu management have not, for the time being, opened the door to the young striker's arrival in the capital, although he is reportedly interested in the project and has supporters within the club.
However, given the Cherries' determination to keep him and the potential cost of prising him away, the Kroupi deal is not currently a priority. A sum in excess of €100m is said to be the minimum required for any club wishing to secure his services.
Meanwhile, Barcelona's Ferran Torres (26) and Atalanta's Charles de Ketelaere (25) – whose names have already been linked with the two-time European champions – are on Paris's shortlist. So too is a third player, whose identity has not yet been revealed.
GFFN | Léo Aschi
#Paris #sport
Whilst seeking an attacking reinforcement to compensate for the departures of Gonçalo Ramos (24), Lee Kang-in (25) and Randal Kolo Muani (27), the Rouge et Bleu management have not, for the time being, opened the door to the young striker's arrival in the capital, although he is reportedly interested in the project and has supporters within the club.
However, given the Cherries' determination to keep him and the potential cost of prising him away, the Kroupi deal is not currently a priority. A sum in excess of €100m is said to be the minimum required for any club wishing to secure his services.
Meanwhile, Barcelona's Ferran Torres (26) and Atalanta's Charles de Ketelaere (25) – whose names have already been linked with the two-time European champions – are on Paris's shortlist. So too is a third player, whose identity has not yet been revealed.
GFFN | Léo Aschi
#Paris #sport
3 months ago
So, in a state with a history of Spanish conquest, history could be repeating itself for Spain. As in Euro 2024, they beat France in a semi-final. As in 2010, they could follow victory in the European Championships by doing the double, by adding a World Cup. Deep in the heart of Texas, Luis de la Fuente's side took a sizeable step towards greatness.
Didier Deschamps had ****** ounced them as the favourites to win the World Cup. It turns out that was not just kidology. As the France manager's epic reign came in effect to an end, it was without a second World Cup or a third consecutive final. Kylian Mbappe may yet go on to become the greatest World Cup goalscorer and player; but not yet, not in Dallas, not now.
Instead, he was outscored on the day by Mikel Oyarzabal, the unheralded striker whose goal decided Euro 2024 and who set Spain towards a still greater triumph. The Real Sociedad captain had an unlikely ally. Pedro Porro, fresh from a Premier League relegation battle with Tottenham, scored a goal to take his side into a World Cup final. But Spain need no reminding that defenders can chip in: their previous World Cup semi-final victory, 16 years ago, came courtesy of Carles Puyol. Watching on, he must have remembered; so, surely, did Sergio Ramos and Xavi, alongside him.
De la Fuente's team are less defined by tiki-taka but they nevertheless prospered by exerting control. They are borrowing from the 2010 formula, global domination secured by reigning European champions who were immune to conceding.
An almost impenetrable defence has been breached only by Belgium's Charles de Ketelaere. France, with their previously fabulous front four, were supposed to provide the stiffest test. But they were not the unstoppable force: not when pitted against the immovable object of the Spanish rearguard. After 35 minutes, France had an xG of 0.01. By the interval, it had crept up to 0.04. The numbers showed how negligible their threat was.
Didier Deschamps had ****** ounced them as the favourites to win the World Cup. It turns out that was not just kidology. As the France manager's epic reign came in effect to an end, it was without a second World Cup or a third consecutive final. Kylian Mbappe may yet go on to become the greatest World Cup goalscorer and player; but not yet, not in Dallas, not now.
Instead, he was outscored on the day by Mikel Oyarzabal, the unheralded striker whose goal decided Euro 2024 and who set Spain towards a still greater triumph. The Real Sociedad captain had an unlikely ally. Pedro Porro, fresh from a Premier League relegation battle with Tottenham, scored a goal to take his side into a World Cup final. But Spain need no reminding that defenders can chip in: their previous World Cup semi-final victory, 16 years ago, came courtesy of Carles Puyol. Watching on, he must have remembered; so, surely, did Sergio Ramos and Xavi, alongside him.
De la Fuente's team are less defined by tiki-taka but they nevertheless prospered by exerting control. They are borrowing from the 2010 formula, global domination secured by reigning European champions who were immune to conceding.
An almost impenetrable defence has been breached only by Belgium's Charles de Ketelaere. France, with their previously fabulous front four, were supposed to provide the stiffest test. But they were not the unstoppable force: not when pitted against the immovable object of the Spanish rearguard. After 35 minutes, France had an xG of 0.01. By the interval, it had crept up to 0.04. The numbers showed how negligible their threat was.
3 months ago
So, in a state with a history of Spanish conquest, history could be repeating itself for Spain. As in Euro 2024, they beat France in a semi-final. As in 2010, they could follow victory in the European Championships by doing the double, by adding a World Cup. Deep in the heart of Texas, Luis de la Fuente’s side took a sizeable step towards greatness.
Didier Deschamps had ***** ounced them as the favourites to win the World Cup. It turns out that was not just kidology. As the France manager’s epic reign came in effect to an end, it was without a second World Cup or a third consecutive final. Kylian Mbappe may yet go on to become the greatest World Cup goalscorer and player; but not yet, not in Dallas, not now.
Instead, he was outscored on the day by Mikel Oyarzabal, the unheralded striker whose goal decided Euro 2024 and who set Spain towards a still greater triumph. The Real Sociedad captain had an unlikely ally. Pedro Porro, fresh from a Premier League relegation battle with Tottenham, scored a goal to take his side into a World Cup final. But Spain need no reminding that defenders can chip in: their previous World Cup semi-final victory, 16 years ago, came courtesy of Carles Puyol. Watching on, he must have remembered; so, surely, did Sergio Ramos and Xavi, alongside him.
De la Fuente’s team are less defined by tiki-taka but they nevertheless prospered by exerting control. They are borrowing from the 2010 formula, global domination secured by reigning European champions who were immune to conceding.
An almost impenetrable defence has been breached only by Belgium’s Charles de Ketelaere. France, with their previously fabulous front four, were supposed to provide the stiffest test. But they were not the unstoppable force: not when pitted against the immovable object of the Spanish rearguard. After 35 minutes, France had an xG of 0.01. By the interval, it had crept up to 0.04. The numbers showed how negligible their threat was.
Didier Deschamps had ***** ounced them as the favourites to win the World Cup. It turns out that was not just kidology. As the France manager’s epic reign came in effect to an end, it was without a second World Cup or a third consecutive final. Kylian Mbappe may yet go on to become the greatest World Cup goalscorer and player; but not yet, not in Dallas, not now.
Instead, he was outscored on the day by Mikel Oyarzabal, the unheralded striker whose goal decided Euro 2024 and who set Spain towards a still greater triumph. The Real Sociedad captain had an unlikely ally. Pedro Porro, fresh from a Premier League relegation battle with Tottenham, scored a goal to take his side into a World Cup final. But Spain need no reminding that defenders can chip in: their previous World Cup semi-final victory, 16 years ago, came courtesy of Carles Puyol. Watching on, he must have remembered; so, surely, did Sergio Ramos and Xavi, alongside him.
De la Fuente’s team are less defined by tiki-taka but they nevertheless prospered by exerting control. They are borrowing from the 2010 formula, global domination secured by reigning European champions who were immune to conceding.
An almost impenetrable defence has been breached only by Belgium’s Charles de Ketelaere. France, with their previously fabulous front four, were supposed to provide the stiffest test. But they were not the unstoppable force: not when pitted against the immovable object of the Spanish rearguard. After 35 minutes, France had an xG of 0.01. By the interval, it had crept up to 0.04. The numbers showed how negligible their threat was.
3 months ago
France and Spain will kick off proceedings for this year’s World Cup semi-finals in Dallas, as they face off for just the second time in the tournament’s history.
La Roja have conceded just one goal so far this tournament, which came in their quarter-final tie with Belgium when Charles De Ketelaere headed home late in the first half. However, they have only scored 11 goals, which is certainly fewer than most would have expected given the star power they possess in attack and the free-flowing football they adopt so well.
Meanwhile, France have been similarly strong at the back, conceding just two goals, albeit against weaker opposition, whilst still finding the net 16 times so far this campaign. Eight of those have come from Kylian Mbappé, who remains top of the scoring charts for the tournament, whilst the other eight have been shared amongst Ousmane Dembélé (5), Bradley Barcola (2) and Desiré Doué (1).
Didier Deschamps’ men will be looking to become just the third country in history to reach three consecutive World Cup finals, joining West Germany (1982, 1986 & 1990) and Brazil (1994, 1998 & 2002). Should they do so, then Mbappé could very well become the first person in history to score in three consecutive finals, having already done so against Croatia in 2018 and Argentina in 2022; he would also become on the second player to feature in three consecutive finals, following in the footsteps of Cafu.
Should Spain make the final, however, it will be the first time they have done so since winning it in 2010, which was their only other appearance at that stage of the competition. With England in the semi-final on the other side of the draw, there is, of course, a chance we see a repeat of the Euro 2024 final, which saw Spain run out 2-1 winners.
La Roja have conceded just one goal so far this tournament, which came in their quarter-final tie with Belgium when Charles De Ketelaere headed home late in the first half. However, they have only scored 11 goals, which is certainly fewer than most would have expected given the star power they possess in attack and the free-flowing football they adopt so well.
Meanwhile, France have been similarly strong at the back, conceding just two goals, albeit against weaker opposition, whilst still finding the net 16 times so far this campaign. Eight of those have come from Kylian Mbappé, who remains top of the scoring charts for the tournament, whilst the other eight have been shared amongst Ousmane Dembélé (5), Bradley Barcola (2) and Desiré Doué (1).
Didier Deschamps’ men will be looking to become just the third country in history to reach three consecutive World Cup finals, joining West Germany (1982, 1986 & 1990) and Brazil (1994, 1998 & 2002). Should they do so, then Mbappé could very well become the first person in history to score in three consecutive finals, having already done so against Croatia in 2018 and Argentina in 2022; he would also become on the second player to feature in three consecutive finals, following in the footsteps of Cafu.
Should Spain make the final, however, it will be the first time they have done so since winning it in 2010, which was their only other appearance at that stage of the competition. With England in the semi-final on the other side of the draw, there is, of course, a chance we see a repeat of the Euro 2024 final, which saw Spain run out 2-1 winners.
3 months ago
The second quarter-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup took place last night, with Spain facing Belgium.
Both teams knew that a win would secure their place in the semi-finals, where France await, and La Roja came into this game as favourites.
Spain dominated most of the game in terms of possession, passes and chances created, but they were not always able to get the final shot away, at least effectively.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for La Roja in the first half after Dani Olmo's shot was deflected into his path.
Belgium equalised through Charles de Ketelaere just before half-time, and Spain had to wait until after the 85th minute, once Mikel Merino came on, to get the winner.
Both teams knew that a win would secure their place in the semi-finals, where France await, and La Roja came into this game as favourites.
Spain dominated most of the game in terms of possession, passes and chances created, but they were not always able to get the final shot away, at least effectively.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring for La Roja in the first half after Dani Olmo's shot was deflected into his path.
Belgium equalised through Charles de Ketelaere just before half-time, and Spain had to wait until after the 85th minute, once Mikel Merino came on, to get the winner.
3 months ago
Pau Cubarsi continues to justify the growing excitement surrounding his development, with the Barcelona defender producing another composed display on the biggest stage of international football.
The 19-year-old played a leading role in Spain's dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, a performance that even caught the attention of former Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Spain looked set for extra time after first-half goals from Fabian Ruiz and Charles De Ketelaere left the contest finely balanced.
However, substitute Mikel Merino delivered the decisive moment in the 88th minute, firing Spain into the semi-finals and keeping their hopes of lifting the World Cup alive.
While Lamine Yamal received the official Player of the Match award, Ibrahimovic believed another Barcelona academy graduate deserved the spotlight after an outstanding defensive display.
The 19-year-old played a leading role in Spain's dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, a performance that even caught the attention of former Barcelona striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Spain looked set for extra time after first-half goals from Fabian Ruiz and Charles De Ketelaere left the contest finely balanced.
However, substitute Mikel Merino delivered the decisive moment in the 88th minute, firing Spain into the semi-finals and keeping their hopes of lifting the World Cup alive.
While Lamine Yamal received the official Player of the Match award, Ibrahimovic believed another Barcelona academy graduate deserved the spotlight after an outstanding defensive display.
3 months ago
Spain beat Belgium 2-1 on Friday to move into a blockbuster World Cup semi-final against France after a hectic game decided by a goalkeeping error from Senne Lammens.
The unfancied Belgians had fought back from going a goal down to Fabian Ruiz's strike on the half-hour mark at a boiling SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with Charles De Ketelaere bringing them level on 41 minutes.
It was the first goal that Spain have conceded at this tournament.
As an increasingly tense quarter-final seemed to be heading for extra time, Pau Cubarsi unleashed a shot from 25 yards out that Manchester United 'stopper Lammens couldn't keep hold of.
Mikel Merino was perfectly positioned to poke in the rebound in the 88th minute.
The unfancied Belgians had fought back from going a goal down to Fabian Ruiz's strike on the half-hour mark at a boiling SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with Charles De Ketelaere bringing them level on 41 minutes.
It was the first goal that Spain have conceded at this tournament.
As an increasingly tense quarter-final seemed to be heading for extra time, Pau Cubarsi unleashed a shot from 25 yards out that Manchester United 'stopper Lammens couldn't keep hold of.
Mikel Merino was perfectly positioned to poke in the rebound in the 88th minute.
3 months ago
Spain was able to eliminate Belgium 2-1 from the World Cup, but it did see an incredible defensive run end at the hands of the feisty Belgians.
Belgium's goal by Charles De Ketelaere in the 41st minute of the World Cup quarterfinal match ended Spain's World Cup shutout streak at 650 consecutive minutes, which was the longest in the history of the World Cup.
The streak started with the end of Spain's 2022 World Cup campaign and included a scoreless draw against Cape Verde to open the 2026 tournament and six consecutive World Cup clean sheets, before De Ketelaere, one of the breakout stars of the tourney, ended the run. Unai Simón was in between the sticks for Spain for the entirety of this tournament and was at the helm in 2022 as well.
The 650-minute streak set a new FIFA World Cup record, surpassing the previous mark of 517 consecutive scoreless minutes, which had been set by Italy goalkeeper Walter Zenga at the 1990 World Cup.
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Belgium's goal by Charles De Ketelaere in the 41st minute of the World Cup quarterfinal match ended Spain's World Cup shutout streak at 650 consecutive minutes, which was the longest in the history of the World Cup.
The streak started with the end of Spain's 2022 World Cup campaign and included a scoreless draw against Cape Verde to open the 2026 tournament and six consecutive World Cup clean sheets, before De Ketelaere, one of the breakout stars of the tourney, ended the run. Unai Simón was in between the sticks for Spain for the entirety of this tournament and was at the helm in 2022 as well.
The 650-minute streak set a new FIFA World Cup record, surpassing the previous mark of 517 consecutive scoreless minutes, which had been set by Italy goalkeeper Walter Zenga at the 1990 World Cup.
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3 months ago
In this high-energy live reaction episode of The Cooligans, Christian Polanco and Alexis Guerreros broadcast live from a remarkably humid Miami to break down Spain's dramatic 2-1 victory over Belgium in the World Cup quarterfinals. The guys dissect an unpredictable game of two halves that saw a cagey opening explode into a chaotic, vibe-driven second period. They ***** yze Belgium's impressive defensive resilience and Charles De Ketelaere's shocking header that broke Spain's clean-sheet streak, all before a devastating gluteal injury forced world-class Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois out of the match.
The hosts heap praise on Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino, dubbed the squad's ultimate closer, who stepped onto the pitch and scored the game-winning goal just three minutes later. They weigh the post-match fallout of the result, reflecting on the poignant international retirement of Belgian maestro Kevin De Bruyne. The conversation highlights a fiery "Stock Up" and "Stock Down" segment, evaluating Lamine Yamal's performance under constant double-teams against an erratic outing from Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón and a disappointing shift from Jeremy Doku. Alexis also leverages Belgium's competitive display to launch a passionate critique of the structural flaws, pay-to-play dynamics, and developmental discrepancies holding back U.S. Soccer.
Looking ahead to the next phase of the tournament bracket, the guys preview a monumental semifinal heavyweight clash between Spain and a relentless France team. They also cast their eyes toward the remaining high-stakes quarterfinal matchups. Christian and Alexis debate whether Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard can exploit an injury-hampered England backline, and map out tactical expectations for a highly physical battle between Switzerland—led by Granit Xhaka and Swiss-Dominican hero Ruben Vargas—and Lionel Messi's resilient Argentina squad.
Timestamps:
(00:00) — Live from Miami: Spain 2-1 Belgium & KDB's Final International Match
The hosts heap praise on Spanish midfielder Mikel Merino, dubbed the squad's ultimate closer, who stepped onto the pitch and scored the game-winning goal just three minutes later. They weigh the post-match fallout of the result, reflecting on the poignant international retirement of Belgian maestro Kevin De Bruyne. The conversation highlights a fiery "Stock Up" and "Stock Down" segment, evaluating Lamine Yamal's performance under constant double-teams against an erratic outing from Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón and a disappointing shift from Jeremy Doku. Alexis also leverages Belgium's competitive display to launch a passionate critique of the structural flaws, pay-to-play dynamics, and developmental discrepancies holding back U.S. Soccer.
Looking ahead to the next phase of the tournament bracket, the guys preview a monumental semifinal heavyweight clash between Spain and a relentless France team. They also cast their eyes toward the remaining high-stakes quarterfinal matchups. Christian and Alexis debate whether Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard can exploit an injury-hampered England backline, and map out tactical expectations for a highly physical battle between Switzerland—led by Granit Xhaka and Swiss-Dominican hero Ruben Vargas—and Lionel Messi's resilient Argentina squad.
Timestamps:
(00:00) — Live from Miami: Spain 2-1 Belgium & KDB's Final International Match
3 months ago
Spain is chasing its sixth straight win over Belgium when the two teams reunite at World Cup 2026 on Friday.
MORE:How to live stream World Cup 2026
July 6, 2026; Seattle, Washington, U.S.; Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere celebrates scoring their second goal. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 3 PM EDT
MORE:How to live stream World Cup 2026
July 6, 2026; Seattle, Washington, U.S.; Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere celebrates scoring their second goal. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 3 PM EDT
3 months ago
Spain and Belgium meet in a blockbuster 2026 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal on Friday, July 10, with a semifinal matchup against France on the line.
MORE:How to live stream World Cup 2026
July 6, 2026; Seattle, Washington, U.S.; Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere celebrates scoring their first goal. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM ET
MORE:How to live stream World Cup 2026
July 6, 2026; Seattle, Washington, U.S.; Belgium's Charles De Ketelaere celebrates scoring their first goal. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
Date: Friday, July 10, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM ET
3 months ago
Where to watch Spain vs. Belgium live stream, TV channel, start time for World Cup quarterfinal match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Spain's stingy defense meets Belgium's red-hot attack when the two sides collide in the World Cup quarterfinals, pitting an impenetrable force against a nearly unstoppable one.
Spain punched its ticket with a 91st-minute Mikel Merino winner over Portugal and still hasn't allowed a goal through the tournament, making it the first team to reach the quarterfinals without conceding since Italy in 1990. La Roja is chasing a return to the semifinals for the first time since its 2010 ***** le run, having failed to get past the Round of 16 in the two tournaments since.
Belgium, meanwhile, is riding a wave of momentum after routing the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16, a game in which Charles De Ketelaere scored twice and Romelu Lukaku and Hans Vanaken each added a goal. The Red Devils have scored at least three goals in three straight matches and sit third in the tournament with 13 total, behind only France and Argentina's 14 apiece.
It's Belgium's first quarterfinal appearance since a third-place finish in 2018, and they're eyeing another step toward a first-ever World Cup ***** le.
Spain's stingy defense meets Belgium's red-hot attack when the two sides collide in the World Cup quarterfinals, pitting an impenetrable force against a nearly unstoppable one.
Spain punched its ticket with a 91st-minute Mikel Merino winner over Portugal and still hasn't allowed a goal through the tournament, making it the first team to reach the quarterfinals without conceding since Italy in 1990. La Roja is chasing a return to the semifinals for the first time since its 2010 ***** le run, having failed to get past the Round of 16 in the two tournaments since.
Belgium, meanwhile, is riding a wave of momentum after routing the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16, a game in which Charles De Ketelaere scored twice and Romelu Lukaku and Hans Vanaken each added a goal. The Red Devils have scored at least three goals in three straight matches and sit third in the tournament with 13 total, behind only France and Argentina's 14 apiece.
It's Belgium's first quarterfinal appearance since a third-place finish in 2018, and they're eyeing another step toward a first-ever World Cup ***** le.
3 months ago
What time is Spain vs. Belgium? Live stream, TV channel, kickoff schedule for World Cup 2026 quarterfinal match originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Spain's stingy defense goes up against Belgium's red-hot attack in a World Cup quarterfinal clash between an impenetrable force and a nearly unstoppable one.
Spain is chasing its first semifinal berth since winning it all in 2010, punching its ticket with a 91st-minute Mikel Merino winner over Portugal. La Roja still haven't conceded a goal all tournament and became the first team to reach this stage to do so since Italy in 1990.
Belgium arrives just as hot, having routed the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16 behind a two-goal game from Charles De Ketelaere and single tallies from Romelu Lukaku and Hans Vanaken, extending a streak of three straight matches with three-plus goals.
It's Belgium's first quarterfinal since a third-place finish in 2018, and they're looking to push toward a first-ever World Cup ***** le, though the history is lopsided: Spain is 5-0 all-time against Belgium, including a 5-0 rout in 2009 World Cup qualifying.
Spain's stingy defense goes up against Belgium's red-hot attack in a World Cup quarterfinal clash between an impenetrable force and a nearly unstoppable one.
Spain is chasing its first semifinal berth since winning it all in 2010, punching its ticket with a 91st-minute Mikel Merino winner over Portugal. La Roja still haven't conceded a goal all tournament and became the first team to reach this stage to do so since Italy in 1990.
Belgium arrives just as hot, having routed the United States 4-1 in the Round of 16 behind a two-goal game from Charles De Ketelaere and single tallies from Romelu Lukaku and Hans Vanaken, extending a streak of three straight matches with three-plus goals.
It's Belgium's first quarterfinal since a third-place finish in 2018, and they're looking to push toward a first-ever World Cup ***** le, though the history is lopsided: Spain is 5-0 all-time against Belgium, including a 5-0 rout in 2009 World Cup qualifying.
3 months ago
Leandro Trossard has created more chances than any other player at this World Cup. Two goals, two ******* ists, and a level of consistency ******* ody expected from Belgium’s supporting cast now sit alongside the more familiar names of Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne on the team sheet. As Belgium prepare to face Spain in Friday’s quarter-final in Los Angeles, the ******* nal winger has quietly become the player his team-mates rely on most.
Belgium reached this stage by beating the United States 4-1 in the round of 16, a scoreline built on two first-half headers from Charles De Ketelaere, the second of which came from a Trossard cross that hung in the air long enough for the Atalanta forward to nod home at the back post. Hans Vanaken and Lukaku added second-half goals to complete the win. It was Belgium’s most comfortable performance of the tournament, arriving straight after a last-32 tie against Senegal they very nearly lost.
Belgium’s route to the quarter-finals has swung between crisis and control. They drew their first two group games against Egypt and Iran before beating New Zealand 5-1 to finish top of Group G. Then, in the last 32 against Senegal, they found themselves two goals down with four minutes left, only to score twice and win with a goal in the 125th minute of extra time. The performance against the USA that followed was a different animal entirely, routine from an early stage and settled well before half-time.
That contrast counts for a great deal heading into a quarter-final against a Spain side that has conceded nothing at this World Cup. Belgium cannot expect Spain to offer the ******* e that Senegal or the USA did in Belgium’s most productive spells. Whatever margin for error existed against those two opponents will not exist on Friday.
Before this tournament, Trossard’s international career had been steady rather than spectacular. Five games into the World Cup, he has scored twice, set up two more, and created more chances than any other player at the tournament. Against the USA, his cross for De Ketelaere’s second goal was typical of the service he has provided all summer, delivered with enough precision that a header was the only finishing touch required.
Belgium reached this stage by beating the United States 4-1 in the round of 16, a scoreline built on two first-half headers from Charles De Ketelaere, the second of which came from a Trossard cross that hung in the air long enough for the Atalanta forward to nod home at the back post. Hans Vanaken and Lukaku added second-half goals to complete the win. It was Belgium’s most comfortable performance of the tournament, arriving straight after a last-32 tie against Senegal they very nearly lost.
Belgium’s route to the quarter-finals has swung between crisis and control. They drew their first two group games against Egypt and Iran before beating New Zealand 5-1 to finish top of Group G. Then, in the last 32 against Senegal, they found themselves two goals down with four minutes left, only to score twice and win with a goal in the 125th minute of extra time. The performance against the USA that followed was a different animal entirely, routine from an early stage and settled well before half-time.
That contrast counts for a great deal heading into a quarter-final against a Spain side that has conceded nothing at this World Cup. Belgium cannot expect Spain to offer the ******* e that Senegal or the USA did in Belgium’s most productive spells. Whatever margin for error existed against those two opponents will not exist on Friday.
Before this tournament, Trossard’s international career had been steady rather than spectacular. Five games into the World Cup, he has scored twice, set up two more, and created more chances than any other player at the tournament. Against the USA, his cross for De Ketelaere’s second goal was typical of the service he has provided all summer, delivered with enough precision that a header was the only finishing touch required.
3 months ago
The United States men's national team is out of its own World Cup, and the manner of the exit — a 4-1 blowout to a Belgium side that started Jérémy Doku and Kevin De Bruyne on the bench — has reopened the same question that follows every American World Cup cycle. Is any of this going to stick?
Charles De Ketelaere scored twice in the first half in Seattle on Monday and set up a third. Romelu Lukaku added a fourth late. It was the USMNT's fourth Round of 16 exit in the last five World Cups it has actually qualified for, and it happened on home soil, with the suspended red card of striker Folarin Balogun barely making it back in time to matter.
"It feels exactly the same," Tyler Adams said, adding that the tournament had its positives but that ultimately "it just doesn't feel like it matters."
Christian Pulisic became the face of that frustration by Monday night. He was pulled midway through the second half with an ankle injury, closing out a tournament in which he'd already missed one match and left two others early. FS1's Nick Wright wasn't interested in the injury excuse, calling it "unacceptable" for the team's most talented player to disappear in the biggest game of his career, whatever else went wrong around him. Pulisic himself brushed the exit off as a sprained ankle in his post-match interview with Fox's Jenny Taft, saying only that he now had time to rest before adding, more broadly, that the U.S. still has "that next step to climb" against the best teams in the world.
That's the soccer conversation. The more interesting one, at least for anyone who covers sports media, is what happens to the audience now that the team everyone was watching is gone.
Charles De Ketelaere scored twice in the first half in Seattle on Monday and set up a third. Romelu Lukaku added a fourth late. It was the USMNT's fourth Round of 16 exit in the last five World Cups it has actually qualified for, and it happened on home soil, with the suspended red card of striker Folarin Balogun barely making it back in time to matter.
"It feels exactly the same," Tyler Adams said, adding that the tournament had its positives but that ultimately "it just doesn't feel like it matters."
Christian Pulisic became the face of that frustration by Monday night. He was pulled midway through the second half with an ankle injury, closing out a tournament in which he'd already missed one match and left two others early. FS1's Nick Wright wasn't interested in the injury excuse, calling it "unacceptable" for the team's most talented player to disappear in the biggest game of his career, whatever else went wrong around him. Pulisic himself brushed the exit off as a sprained ankle in his post-match interview with Fox's Jenny Taft, saying only that he now had time to rest before adding, more broadly, that the U.S. still has "that next step to climb" against the best teams in the world.
That's the soccer conversation. The more interesting one, at least for anyone who covers sports media, is what happens to the audience now that the team everyone was watching is gone.
3 months ago
Jeremy Doku was a second-half sub in Belgium's 4-1 Round of 16 victory over hosts USA at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Men's Team
Our 24-year-old winger sat out the first 67 minutes of the game in Seattle before replacing Dodi Lukebakio with the Red Devils already 3-1 up.
Atalanta's Charles De Ketelaere had been the star up until that point, scoring Belgium's first two goals either side of Malick Tillman's equaliser for Mauricio Pochettino's USMNT.
Belgium were firmly in control just before the hour mark, when Hans Vanaken leapt on a mistake from goalkeeper Matt Freese to double their advantage.
Men's Team
Our 24-year-old winger sat out the first 67 minutes of the game in Seattle before replacing Dodi Lukebakio with the Red Devils already 3-1 up.
Atalanta's Charles De Ketelaere had been the star up until that point, scoring Belgium's first two goals either side of Malick Tillman's equaliser for Mauricio Pochettino's USMNT.
Belgium were firmly in control just before the hour mark, when Hans Vanaken leapt on a mistake from goalkeeper Matt Freese to double their advantage.
3 months ago
Jeremy Doku and Belgium progress into a FIFA World Cup quarter-final after defeating co-hosts United States in Seattle on Monday night.
A brace from Charles De Ketelaere spear-headed a ruthless Belgian display in Seattle, silencing the home support and bringing a bruising halt to the United States' World Cup journey.
De Ketelaere initially caught the defence napping by tapping home a ninth-minute cross from Nicolas Raskin. While Mauricio Pochettino's men found fleeting life courtesy of a heavily deflected Malik Tillman free-kick, their joy was instantly erased just two minutes later as De Ketelaere nodded home his second.
The structural cracks in the American lines completely gave way in the second half, punctuated by a disastrous error from goalkeeper Matt Freese that allowed Hans Vanaken to capitalise from distance.
To put a devastating exclamation point on the performance, substitute Romelu Lukaku entered the fray late on to squeeze home a clinical, tight-angle finish deep into stoppage time.
A brace from Charles De Ketelaere spear-headed a ruthless Belgian display in Seattle, silencing the home support and bringing a bruising halt to the United States' World Cup journey.
De Ketelaere initially caught the defence napping by tapping home a ninth-minute cross from Nicolas Raskin. While Mauricio Pochettino's men found fleeting life courtesy of a heavily deflected Malik Tillman free-kick, their joy was instantly erased just two minutes later as De Ketelaere nodded home his second.
The structural cracks in the American lines completely gave way in the second half, punctuated by a disastrous error from goalkeeper Matt Freese that allowed Hans Vanaken to capitalise from distance.
To put a devastating exclamation point on the performance, substitute Romelu Lukaku entered the fray late on to squeeze home a clinical, tight-angle finish deep into stoppage time.
3 months ago
SEATTLE — U.S. men's national team goalkeeper Matt Freese was despondent after his error against Belgium helped endure his team's World Cup elimination.
The U.S. trailed 2-1 early in the second half of Monday's World Cup round of 16 match when disaster struck at the back.
Freese came out of his box to cut out a long pass and chested the ball down. But with Charles De Ketelaere putting pressure on, the goalkeeper fatally hesitated. De Ketelaere blocked Freese's attempted pass and the ball deflected right to Hans Vanaken, who finished from long range with Freese out of the net.
Belgium's third goal took the wind out of the USMNT's sails. Down two goals, the U.S. never again looked like it would recover and conceded a late fourth in a devastating 4-1 defeat to end the tournament.
Freese, of course, was far from the only culprit on the night. Almost every USMNT player looked out of sorts as Belgium had more energy and desire. But the goalkeeper knew that his mistake had been a significant blow.
The U.S. trailed 2-1 early in the second half of Monday's World Cup round of 16 match when disaster struck at the back.
Freese came out of his box to cut out a long pass and chested the ball down. But with Charles De Ketelaere putting pressure on, the goalkeeper fatally hesitated. De Ketelaere blocked Freese's attempted pass and the ball deflected right to Hans Vanaken, who finished from long range with Freese out of the net.
Belgium's third goal took the wind out of the USMNT's sails. Down two goals, the U.S. never again looked like it would recover and conceded a late fourth in a devastating 4-1 defeat to end the tournament.
Freese, of course, was far from the only culprit on the night. Almost every USMNT player looked out of sorts as Belgium had more energy and desire. But the goalkeeper knew that his mistake had been a significant blow.
3 months ago
After FIFA's controversial decision to lift Folarin Balogun's suspension, USMNT welcome Belgium in Seattle as the Round of 16 action continues at the World Cup. Their top-scorer starts up front, despite his red card in the previous round against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
After the dismissal of the Monaco striker, who scored the opener at the stroke of half-time, Malik Tillman sealed the victory for Mauricio Pochettino’s men with a direct free-kick goal. Bayer Leverkusen’s midfielder is on the starting lineup once again, while Gladbach's duo Joe Scally and Gio Reyna are on the bench.
Meanwhile, Arthur Theate is dropped to the bench by Rudi Garcia after he started the last two games for Belgium. Lille's centre-back Nathan Ngoy won his place back from Eintracht Frankfurt's defender. Belgium came from a two-goal deficit in the Round of 16 to beat Senegal in extra-time. As expected, the French coach made several changes including dropping Kevin de Bruyne and Jeremy Doku to the bench.
USA XI: Freese; Freeman, Richards, Ream ©, Robinson; Tillman, Adams, McKennie; Dest, Balogun, Pulisic
Belgium XI: Courtois; Castagne, Mechele, Ngoy, de Cuyper; Onana, Raskin; Lukebakio, Tielemans ©, Trossard; Charles de Ketelaere
After the dismissal of the Monaco striker, who scored the opener at the stroke of half-time, Malik Tillman sealed the victory for Mauricio Pochettino’s men with a direct free-kick goal. Bayer Leverkusen’s midfielder is on the starting lineup once again, while Gladbach's duo Joe Scally and Gio Reyna are on the bench.
Meanwhile, Arthur Theate is dropped to the bench by Rudi Garcia after he started the last two games for Belgium. Lille's centre-back Nathan Ngoy won his place back from Eintracht Frankfurt's defender. Belgium came from a two-goal deficit in the Round of 16 to beat Senegal in extra-time. As expected, the French coach made several changes including dropping Kevin de Bruyne and Jeremy Doku to the bench.
USA XI: Freese; Freeman, Richards, Ream ©, Robinson; Tillman, Adams, McKennie; Dest, Balogun, Pulisic
Belgium XI: Courtois; Castagne, Mechele, Ngoy, de Cuyper; Onana, Raskin; Lukebakio, Tielemans ©, Trossard; Charles de Ketelaere
3 months ago
USA and Belgium face off this Tuesday at the Lumen Field in World Cup.
In their last match, USA prevailed 2-0 against Bosnia & Herzegovina (World Cup 2026). In their last fixture, Belgium won 3-2 against Senegal (World Cup 2026).
The last meeting between the two teams ended with Belgium winning 5-2.
USA ( vs Bosnia & Herzegovina 2026-07-02): Matt Freese, Alex Freeman, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Malik Tillman, Tyler Adams, Sergiño Dest, Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun
Belgium ( vs Senegal 2026-07-01): Thibaut Courtois, Timothy Castagne, Arthur Theate, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper, Hans Vanaken, Youri Tielemans, Leandro Trossard, Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku, Charles De Ketelaere
In their last match, USA prevailed 2-0 against Bosnia & Herzegovina (World Cup 2026). In their last fixture, Belgium won 3-2 against Senegal (World Cup 2026).
The last meeting between the two teams ended with Belgium winning 5-2.
USA ( vs Bosnia & Herzegovina 2026-07-02): Matt Freese, Alex Freeman, Tim Ream, Chris Richards, Antonee Robinson, Malik Tillman, Tyler Adams, Sergiño Dest, Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic, Folarin Balogun
Belgium ( vs Senegal 2026-07-01): Thibaut Courtois, Timothy Castagne, Arthur Theate, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper, Hans Vanaken, Youri Tielemans, Leandro Trossard, Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku, Charles De Ketelaere
3 months ago
The United States Men’s National Team continues to advance at the 2026 World Cup, having taken down Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 32 by a 2-0 margin. The tournament field continues to narrow, and the opponents grow more daunting, with Belgium hoping to spoil the co-hosts’ party and advance to the quarterfinal. The European program is looking to improve on a third-place finish in 2018, which would be quite the welcome surprise well after a golden generation. Seattle, Washington’s Lumen Field – a 72,000-seat multi-purpose stadium with a temporary stitched natural grass surface – hosts the fixture.
This is the eighth all-time meeting between the two nations, with the USMNT carrying a 1-6-0 record and falling in the most recent match, a friendly defeat (2-5) in March. Ranked 10th internationally by FIFA, Belgium reached the World Cup by finishing atop UEFA’s Group J of qualifying with a 5-0-3 record, besting Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, and Liechtenstein. At the current competition, the Red Devils claimed Group G with draws against Egypt (1-1) and Iran (0-0) and a victory over New Zealand (5-1) before requiring extra time and a fortuitous penalty to top Senegal (3-2) in the Round of 32.
Rudi Garcia was appointed to lead the program in January 2025, his first international gig after leading a variety of club sides including Lille, Roma, Marseille, Lyon, Al Nassr, and Napoli. The 62-year-old Frenchman believes that his squad is “very driven” and “aiming high” with the capacity to “achieve great things.” He has praised the “oldies” in his group, defending them against treatment as “has-beens.”
Garcia named a 26-player roster for the World Cup. The Belgian Pro League is home to three of the call-ups, while seven talents are on the books of Premier League clubs, five compete in Ligue 1, and five can be found in Serie A. Notable absences include Michy Batshuayi, Loïs Openda, Matz Sels, and Malick Fofana.
***
GOALKEEPERS (3): Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid), Senne Lammens (Manchester United), Mike Penders (Strasbourg)
DEFENDERS (9): Zeno Debast (Sporting CP), Arthur Theate (Eintracht Frankfurt), Brandon Mechele (Club Brugge), Maxim De Cuyper (Brighton & Hove Albion), Thomas Meunier (Lille), Koni De Winter (Milan), Joaquin Seys (Club Brugge), Timothy Castagne (Fulham), Nathan Ngoy (Lille)
MIDFIELDERS (7): Axel Witsel (Girona), Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli), Youri Tielemans (Aston Villa), Diego Moreira (Strasbourg), Hans Vanaken (Club Brugge), Nicolas Raskin (Rangers), Amadou Onana (Aston Villa)
FORWARDS (7): Romelu Lukaku (Napoli), Leandro Trossard (Arsenal), Jérémy Doku (Manchester City), Dodi Lukébakio (Benfica), Charles De Ketelaere (Atalanta), Alexis Saelemaekers (Milan), Matias Fernandez-Pardo (Lille)
***
Garcia has utilized a few different formations but appears to be sticking to the 4-2-3-1/5-4-1 at the World Cup, with a traditional midfielder dropped into the back line when defending. The squad engages in a total press that “force
This is the eighth all-time meeting between the two nations, with the USMNT carrying a 1-6-0 record and falling in the most recent match, a friendly defeat (2-5) in March. Ranked 10th internationally by FIFA, Belgium reached the World Cup by finishing atop UEFA’s Group J of qualifying with a 5-0-3 record, besting Wales, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, and Liechtenstein. At the current competition, the Red Devils claimed Group G with draws against Egypt (1-1) and Iran (0-0) and a victory over New Zealand (5-1) before requiring extra time and a fortuitous penalty to top Senegal (3-2) in the Round of 32.
Rudi Garcia was appointed to lead the program in January 2025, his first international gig after leading a variety of club sides including Lille, Roma, Marseille, Lyon, Al Nassr, and Napoli. The 62-year-old Frenchman believes that his squad is “very driven” and “aiming high” with the capacity to “achieve great things.” He has praised the “oldies” in his group, defending them against treatment as “has-beens.”
Garcia named a 26-player roster for the World Cup. The Belgian Pro League is home to three of the call-ups, while seven talents are on the books of Premier League clubs, five compete in Ligue 1, and five can be found in Serie A. Notable absences include Michy Batshuayi, Loïs Openda, Matz Sels, and Malick Fofana.
***
GOALKEEPERS (3): Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid), Senne Lammens (Manchester United), Mike Penders (Strasbourg)
DEFENDERS (9): Zeno Debast (Sporting CP), Arthur Theate (Eintracht Frankfurt), Brandon Mechele (Club Brugge), Maxim De Cuyper (Brighton & Hove Albion), Thomas Meunier (Lille), Koni De Winter (Milan), Joaquin Seys (Club Brugge), Timothy Castagne (Fulham), Nathan Ngoy (Lille)
MIDFIELDERS (7): Axel Witsel (Girona), Kevin De Bruyne (Napoli), Youri Tielemans (Aston Villa), Diego Moreira (Strasbourg), Hans Vanaken (Club Brugge), Nicolas Raskin (Rangers), Amadou Onana (Aston Villa)
FORWARDS (7): Romelu Lukaku (Napoli), Leandro Trossard (Arsenal), Jérémy Doku (Manchester City), Dodi Lukébakio (Benfica), Charles De Ketelaere (Atalanta), Alexis Saelemaekers (Milan), Matias Fernandez-Pardo (Lille)
***
Garcia has utilized a few different formations but appears to be sticking to the 4-2-3-1/5-4-1 at the World Cup, with a traditional midfielder dropped into the back line when defending. The squad engages in a total press that “force
3 months ago
Arsenal have appointed Pascal De Maesschalck as their new academy director, with the Belgian set to succeed Per Mertesacker after his eight years in the role came to an end last season.
De Maesschalck will officially join ***** nal on August 1 from Strasbourg, where he has served as technical director since 2024.
His arrival gives the club an experienced academy specialist with a long record of working across European youth systems and developing players for first-team football.
The 52-year-old spent around 14 years at Club Brugge, where he started as head of the youth department in 2007 before later becoming academy manager. During that period he was closely involved in the development of players including Charles De Ketelaere and Lois Openda.
Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images
De Maesschalck will officially join ***** nal on August 1 from Strasbourg, where he has served as technical director since 2024.
His arrival gives the club an experienced academy specialist with a long record of working across European youth systems and developing players for first-team football.
The 52-year-old spent around 14 years at Club Brugge, where he started as head of the youth department in 2007 before later becoming academy manager. During that period he was closely involved in the development of players including Charles De Ketelaere and Lois Openda.
Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images
3 months ago
There are numerous Serie A players in tonight's World Cup tie between Belgium and Senegal, as Kevin De Bruyne and Charles De Ketelaere take on ***** ane Diao with a forced change in goal.
It kicks off in Seattle at 21.00 UK time (22.00 CEST) for the Round of 32.
The winners of this match will go on to face either the USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the last 16.
RIJEKA, CROATIA – JUNE 02: Romelu Lukaku of Belgium celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the international friendly match between Croatia and Belgium at Stadion HNK Rijeka on June 02, 2026 in Rijeka, Croatia. (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)
Belgium are packed with Serie A talent, including Napoli centre-forward Romelu Lukaku and Milan winger Alexis Saelemaekers on the bench.
It kicks off in Seattle at 21.00 UK time (22.00 CEST) for the Round of 32.
The winners of this match will go on to face either the USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the last 16.
RIJEKA, CROATIA – JUNE 02: Romelu Lukaku of Belgium celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the international friendly match between Croatia and Belgium at Stadion HNK Rijeka on June 02, 2026 in Rijeka, Croatia. (Photo by Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)
Belgium are packed with Serie A talent, including Napoli centre-forward Romelu Lukaku and Milan winger Alexis Saelemaekers on the bench.
