Malik Tillman created a moment of history with another incredible direct free-kick at the FIFA World Cup 2026, but it proved to be little consolation as the United States crashed out of the tournament after a comprehensive 4-1 loss to Belgium in their Round of 16 clash at Seattle’s Lumen Field on Monday.Despite the disappointing exit, Tillman etched his name in the record books by becoming the first United States national team player to score multiple direct free-kick goals in a single game. FIFA World Cup in the last 60 years. His stunning 31st-minute strike briefly reignited hope for the hosts after Belgium took the lead, but the Red Devils quickly regained control before sailing into the quarter-finals.Belgium will now face Spain in the last eight as they continue their quest for a first World Cup title.
Tillman’s historic strike raises hope
The hosts endured a terrible start when Charles De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the eighth minute, exposing the defensive frailties that have plagued Mauricio Pochettino’s side throughout the tournament.The United States found a route back into the contest after the half-hour mark. Folarin Balogun, whose controversial red-card suspension was lifted by FIFA before the match, was brought down about 25 yards from goal by Brandon Mechele.Tillman stepped up and grabbed a superb free-kick that took a slight deflection off Hans Vanaken before beating Thibaut Courtois, leveling the scores at 1-1. The goal marked his second straight free-kick of the tournament, making him the first American in six decades to achieve the feat in a World Cup.However, the celebrations hardly lasted a minute.WATCH:Just 61 seconds after kick-off, Belgium restored their advantage as De Ketelaere headed home his second goal of the night, silencing the home crowd once again.
Belgium punished costly American mistakes
Belgium’s quality and experience ultimately proved too much for the tournament hosts.The Red Devils stretched their lead early in the second half after a costly error from goalkeeper Matt Freese. Attempting to control a long ball, Freese hesitated before inadvertently kicking the ball past De Ketelaere, allowing Vanaken to score from distance after the rebound fell kindly.Belgium continues to dictate proceedings even as the United States introduces new attack options.Romelu Lukaku, introduced in the 67th minute, added late in stoppage time after capitalizing on Chris Richards’ errant pass to score his third goal in as many World Cup appearances.The loss means the United States have been eliminated in the Round of 16 in six of their seven matches this World Cup, including each of their last four knockout campaigns.