The United States men's national team endured a difficult first half against Belgium in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, trailing 2-1 at the interval in front of a sold-out crowd at Seattle Stadium. Head coach Mauricio Pochettino was seen kicking a set of Powerade bottles beside his bench in frustration after his side conceded a second goal, an incident that captured the mood of a shaky defensive display and highlighted the pressure on the USA as they chase a place in the quarter-finals.

Charles De Ketelaere put Belgium ahead inside the first 10 minutes by tapping in from close range, before Malik Tillman levelled with a deflected free kick past Thibaut Courtois in the 31st minute. Just two minutes later, De Ketelaere restored Belgium's lead with a header over defender Tim Ream, prompting Pochettino's reaction. Although possession was fairly even at 53% to 47%, Belgium dominated the chances, registering five shots on target to the USA's one and creating four big opportunities. The USA must improve to reach the last eight, where Spain await; only the 2002 side has reached the quarter-finals in the modern format.