USA vs Belgium: World Cup 1/8 Final Preview

USA face Belgium at Lumen Field on 7 July 2026 in a World Cup 1/8 final, with both group winners carrying strong form from the group stage (USA 6 points, goal difference +4; Belgium 5 points, goal difference +4).

USA Absences

For USA, three absences reshape Gregg Berhalter’s options. M. McKenzie (Bruised Foot) is sidelined, removing a defensive option. C. Roldan (Muscle Bruise) is sidelined, trimming midfield depth and late-game flexibility. The biggest setback is up front: F. Balogun (Red Card) is sidelined. Balogun has been USA’s key attacking reference, scoring 3 goals in 3 appearances with 8 shots and a 7.23 average rating, and his suspension is a major blow to their cutting edge in the penalty area.

Belgium Absence

Belgium have one confirmed absentee. Z. Debast (Leg Injury) is sidelined, slightly weakening their central defensive rotation but without impacting their main creative and scoring figures further up the pitch.

Attacking Output

In terms of attacking output, USA lose their leading scorer and primary finisher, forcing others like C. Pulisic, T. Weah or R. Pepi to shoulder the goal burden. Belgium, by contrast, arrive with their attacking unit intact, meaning the greater offensive disruption clearly lies on the USA side ahead of this knockout tie.