Belgium crushed World Cup co-hosts the United States 4-1, while Spain edged Portugal to book a last-eight clash and end Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career.
Belgium stormed into the World Cup quarter-finals with a commanding 4-1 victory over co-hosts the United States, ending the Americans’ hopes of a deep tournament run.
Charles De Ketelaere scored twice to lead Belgium, while Hans Vanaken and substitute Romelu Lukaku also found the net.
As a result, Belgium advanced to a quarter-final meeting with Spain.
The United States briefly drew level through Malik Tillman’s deflected free-kick after De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the ninth minute.
However, Belgium regained control just two minutes later when De Ketelaere headed home his second goal.
Belgium capitalise on US errors
Vanaken extended Belgium’s lead in the 57th minute after United States goalkeeper Matt Freese lost possession while attempting to clear the ball outside his penalty area.
Later, Lukaku added a fourth goal in stoppage time to seal an emphatic victory.
Meanwhile, US striker Folarin Balogun had little impact despite returning to the starting line-up after FIFA suspended his one-match ban.
The defeat ended the United States’ bid to reach its first World Cup quarter-final in 24 years.
Spain eliminate Portugal
Elsewhere, Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Portugal to book a quarter-final showdown with Belgium.
Substitute Mikel Merino scored the decisive goal in first-half stoppage time after collecting a quick free-kick and finishing past goalkeeper Diogo Costa.
The result also marked the end of Cristiano Ronaldo’s World Cup career.
After the match, the 41-year-old said he would take time to consider his future but insisted he would leave the tournament with “a clear conscience.”
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team’s display, describing the contest as a final played ahead of schedule.
