Sabasports Match Preview
World Cup: United States vs Belgium
Kickoff Time: 2026-07-7 8:00 (HKT)
The USA beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 in the Round of 32, sealing their first knockout-stage victory in 24 years and advancing to the last 16 in impressive fashion. Managed by Mauricio Pochettino, the USA adopt a high-pressing style defined by youthful energy and relentless running. Tactically, Christian Pulisic and Sergiño Dest provide explosive wide threats to constantly stretch opposing defences. Holding midfield duo Tyler Adams and Malik Tillman patrol the pitch to win back possession and break up opposition attacks. Weston McKennie, the midfield linchpin, excels in both attack and defence, surging forward to support offensive play while dropping back to bolster rearguard cover. However, starting striker Folarin Balogun will serve a suspension after receiving a red card, a massive blow to the USA’s prospects. Balogun has netted three goals since the group stage began; without his focal-point presence up front, the Americans are set to suffer a sharp drop in attacking efficiency.
Belgium eliminated African powerhouse Senegal after extra time in the Round of 32, scraping through to the last 16 by the narrowest of margins. Tactically, Belgium prioritise one-touch passing, quick combination play and immediate counter-pressing after losing possession. Kevin De Bruyne acts as the side’s creative engine and midfield metronome, orchestrating central and wide interplay to carve open rival defences. Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard are Belgium’s primary attacking outlets down the flanks. Their elite one-on-one dribbling ability creates space and delivery opportunities for Charles De Ketelaere in the centre. Thibaut Courtois stands as the team’s defensive last line, providing reliable goalkeeping protection. That said, Belgium struggle to break down low-block defensive setups when opponents park the bus, as demonstrated when they failed to score against Iran in the group stage.
In terms of overall squad quality, Belgium hold a clear edge over the USA and boast far more extensive major tournament experience. Furthermore, the USA’s attacking threat has been severely weakened without Balogun leading the line. With these factors stacked in their favour, Belgium are fancied to avoid defeat and stand a strong chance of claiming a regular-time win in this fixture.
USA ‘s Last 5 Games: WLWWL
26-07-02 USA 2-0 Bosnia–Herzegovina
26-06-26 Turkey 3-2 USA
26-06-20 USA 2-0 Australia
26-06-13 USA 4-1 Paraguay
26-06-07 USA 1-2 Germany
Belgium ‘s Last 5 Games: DWDDW
26-07-02 Belgium 2-2 Senegal (AET 1-0)
26-06-27 New Zealand 1-5 Belgium
26-06-22 Belgium 0-0 Iran
26-06-16 Belgium 1-1 Egypt
26-06-06 Belgium 5-0 Tunisia
Head-To-Head Record
26-03-29 USA 2-5 Belgium
14-07-02 Belgium 0-0 USA
13-05-30 USA 2-4 Belgium
11-09-07 Belgium 1-0 USA
Prediction: Belgium to win or draw