The United States men’s national soccer team was eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday after suffering a 4-1 defeat to Belgium national football team in the Round of 16.

The loss brings an end to the United States’ tournament run after a campaign that included a first-place finish in the group stage and its first World Cup knockout victory in 24 years.

Belgium now advances to the quarterfinals, where it will face Spain national football team in Los Angeles on Friday.

The Americans entered the match with leading striker Folarin Balogun available after FIFA suspended the enforcement of his one-match ban.

Balogun had originally been ruled out following a red card during the United States’ July 1 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina national football team.

The dismissal came after a second-half collision involving an opposing player’s foot and initially triggered an automatic one-match suspension.

At the time, FIFA stated that the disciplinary decision was final and not subject to appeal. However, the governing body later suspended the implementation of the ban for a one-year probationary period, allowing Balogun to participate in Monday’s knockout match.

Despite his return, the United States was unable to overcome a clinical Belgian side that controlled much of the contest and secured a convincing three-goal victory to book its place in the last eight.

The defeat ends the U.S. team’s hopes of reaching the World Cup quarterfinals, while Belgium continues its pursuit of the tournament title with a high-profile showdown against Spain awaiting in the next round.