Tonight, the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) is set to continue their historic World Cup run in the Round of 16, facing off against Belgium. It promises to be an interesting match, especially considering some unexpected developments.
Initially, Folarin Balogun received a red card during the Round of 32 game against Bosnia and Herzegovina, which meant he wouldn’t be available for today’s match. But in a surprising twist, FIFA has decided to overturn that decision, allowing him to participate after all.
Details about the match are as follows:
- What: 2026 FIFA World Cup, Round of 16
- When: July 6, 8 PM ET
- Where: Lumen Field, Seattle, WA
- Channel: FOX (English); Telemundo (Spanish)
- Streaming: Available on DIRECTV with a trial period.
It’s important to note that Balogun’s initial suspension can’t be appealed, as clarified by FIFA’s regulations. They referenced Article 27 of their Disciplinary Code when making the decision to rescind the red card. Interestingly, this precedent mirrors a situation involving Cristiano Ronaldo, where his suspension was postponed to ensure he wouldn’t miss a World Cup game.
In an unusual turn, the Royal Belgian Football Association tried to contest this ruling but was met with a firm response from FIFA, which stated it wouldn’t engage in the matter.
Adding to the drama, President Trump has acknowledged that he reached out to FIFA president Gianni Infantino to discuss the situation regarding Balogun’s red card.
The stakes are high—tonight’s winner will advance to the quarter-finals and take on either Portugal or Spain on July 10. If the USMNT secures the win, it would mark only their second appearance in World Cup quarter-finals.
Match Timing for USA vs Belgium
The match is set to kick off at 8 PM ET today, July 6.
How to Watch USA vs. Belgium
If you’re without cable or an antenna, you can stream the match for free through various live TV services. Personally, I recommend DIRECTV, as they offer a free trial period, which could save you some money on your first month while providing access to channels like FOX and Telemundo.
USMNT World Cup Results
- Paraguay (Group D) – America 4, Paraguay 1
- Australia (Group D) – America 2, Australia 0
- Türkiye (Group D) – Türkiye 3, America 2
- Bosnia and Herzegovina (Round 32) – America 2, Bosnia and Herzegovina 0
Belgium World Cup Results
- Egypt (Group G) – 1-1 Draw
- Iran (Group G) – 0-0 Draw
- New Zealand (Group G) – Belgium 5, New Zealand 0
- Senegal (Round 32) – Belgium 3, Senegal 1
USA World Cup Roster
Goalkeepers: Matt Turner, Matt Freeze, Chris Brady
Defenders: Serginho Dest, Chris Richards, Anthony Robinson, Auston Trustee, Miles Robinson, Tim Ream (Captain), Alex Freeman, Mark Mackenzie, Joe Scully
Midfielders: Tyler Adams, Giovanni Reyna, Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic, Brenden Aaronson, Sebastian Berhalter, Christian Roldan, Malik Tillman, Max Alfsten
Forwards: Ricardo Pepi, Haji Wright, Folarin Balogun, Timothy Weah, Alejandro Zendejas
Belgium World Cup Squad
Goalkeepers: Thibaut Courtois, Senne Ramens, Mike Penders
Defenders: Xeno Devast, Arthur Theate, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Kuyper, Axel Witsel, Thomas Meunier, Coni De Winter, Joaquin Seis, Timothy Castagne, Nathan Goy
Midfielders: Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans (Captain), Hans Vanaken, Nicholas Raskin, Amadou Onana
Forwards: Romelu Lukaku, Leandro Trossard, Jeremy Doku, Dodi Lukebakio, Charles De Ketelaere, Diego Moreira, Alexis Saelemaekers, Matias Fernandez-Pardo
