The United States men's national team is set to face Belgium in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday, seeking revenge for a heartbreaking extra-time loss 12 years ago. Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who started in that 2014 match, recalled the performance of American goalkeeper Tim Howard, who made 16 saves in a 2-1 defeat.
Courtois Reflects on 2014 Thriller
Courtois, now 34, will start again as Belgium takes on the US in Seattle. He acknowledged the evolution of American soccer since that match in Brazil. “I think they can produce a lot of talent and become a world force,” Courtois said. “They’re already a great team together, they play well. ... Hopefully it comes to an end (Monday) and that we can win, but we’re expecting a tough game.”
American Soccer's Progress and Setbacks
The US has made significant strides since 2014, but also faced setbacks, including a stunning loss to Trinidad and Tobago in 2017 that caused the team to miss the 2018 World Cup. Under Argentine coach Mauricio Pochettino, the Americans have won three of four games in this tournament, with a roster featuring European club stars like Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun. Balogun is eligible for Monday's game after President Donald Trump called FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review his red card.
Belgium's Veterans and Resilience
Belgium midfielder Axel Witsel, who also played in 2014, noted the US improvement. “I think technically they are better,” Witsel said. “Physically, and also the intensity they can put during the game. And of course, the way they coach.” Belgium's roster includes five players from the 2014 squad, including Courtois, Witsel, Kevin De Bruyne, and Romelu Lukaku. The Red Devils showed resilience by coming back from a two-goal deficit to beat Senegal 3-2 in the round of 32.
US Defender Freeman Seeks Revenge
US defender Alex Freeman, who was nine years old during the 2014 match, emphasized the desire for revenge. “We want revenge, right?” Freeman said. “Revenge from then, and revenge from three months ago when we lost to them. I think for us, it’s kind of putting that mindset that we have to win and knowing that we’re not only doing it for us, but we’re doing it for the nation as well.” The Americans are winless in 13 straight World Cup matchups against European opponents and lost 5-2 to Belgium in a March warmup match.
Inflection Point for American Soccer
A win on Monday could be a turning point for US soccer. Defender Chris Richards fondly remembers Howard's performance. “It was fun,” Richards said. “I think people spoke (highly) about that Belgium ‘Golden Generation’, and I think our boys went toe-to-toe with them. Ultimately, it’s exciting to be able to reenact it. And hopefully, the result comes out on our side.”
