Belgium thrash co-hosts USA 4-1 to reach World Cup quarterfinals

Belgium ended the USA's home World Cup dream in style, beating the co-hosts 4-1 in a one-sided Round of 16 clash. It is a big result because USA are one of the three countries hosting this World Cup, and going out this early, and by this scoreline, will hurt.

Charles De Ketelaere was the star of the night. He scored twice, once inside the first ten minutes and again just before the half-hour mark, giving Belgium a firm grip on the game early on. Malik Tillman pulled one back for USA in the 31st minute to keep hope alive, but Belgium never really looked worried after that. Hans Vanaken added a third in the second half, and Romelu Lukaku wrapped things up with a goal in stoppage time to make the final score 4-1.

The numbers back up how comfortable Belgium were. They had 15 shots to USA's 6, more shots on target, and did not concede a single yellow card while USA picked up two, to Weston McKennie in the first half and Tillman later on. USA had more of the ball and passed it well, but could not turn that control into real chances.

For USA, this is a tough way to bow out of a tournament played on home soil. For Belgium, it is a strong statement going into the quarterfinals, where they will now face Spain, fresh off their own win over Portugal.