2026 World Cup: United States vs. Belgium, Probable Lineups

The United States vs. Belgium match is part of the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup; kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m. (Italian time) in Seattle. The match will be played amid a heated atmosphere following recent events: the suspension of U.S. forward Balogun—who was sent off in the match against Bosnia—was sensationally overturned after Trump called FIFA President Infantino.

Controversy aside, the Stars and Stripes are a highly respected national team, capable of winning their group and defeating Bosnia even while down to 10 men. The Red Devils’ campaign, on the other hand, has been marked by criticism from the press over draws in their first two matches against Egypt and Iran, though this was mitigated by a resounding victory over New Zealand. The dramatic win over Senegal in stoppage time has boosted the confidence of Lukaku and his teammates, who now face their toughest challenge yet.

Balogun will therefore be the starting striker for Pochettino’s team, which will field Dest, McKennie, and Pulisic in the attacking midfield. Tillman and Adams will anchor the midfield.

Rudi Garcia is expected to start Lukaku from the 1st minute, supported by the attacking midfield trio of Lukebakio, De Bruyne, and Trossard. The central midfield duo will consist of Tielemans and Raskin, while the two fullbacks will be Castagne and De Cuyper.

United States vs. Belgium: Probable Lineups
UNITED STATES (4-2-3-1): Freese; Freeman, Ream, Richards, Robinson; Adams, Tillman; Dest, McKennie, Pulisic; Balogun
BELGIUM (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Castagne, Ngoy, Machele, De Cuyper; Tielemans, Raskin; Lukebakio, De Bruyne, Trossard, Lukaku