Malik Tillman made history with another goal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but it was little consolation as the United States crashed out of the tournament following a heavy 4-1 loss to Belgium in their Round of 16 match at Seattle’s Lumen Field on Monday.Despite the disappointing exit, Tillman put his name in the record books by becoming the first player on the United States national team to score multiple goals in straight games. FIFA World Cup in the last 60 years. His stunning 31st-minute strike restored hope for the hosts after Belgium took an early lead, but the Red Devils regained control before entering the quarter-finals.Belgium face Spain in the last eight as they continue their quest for a first World Cup title.
Tillman’s historic streak brings hope
The hosts were dealt a terrible blow when Charles De Ketelaere opened the scoring in the eighth minute, exposing the defensive frailty that had plagued Mauricio Pochettino’s side throughout the competition.The United States found their way back into the contest just after half an hour. Folarin Balogun, whose red card suspension was overturned by FIFA before the game, was brought down about 25 yards from goal by Brandon Mechele.Tillman stepped up and fired a superb ball that deflected just wide of Hans Vanaken before beating Thibaut Courtois, leveling the scores at 1-1. The goal was his second direct hit of the game, making him the first American in sixty years to score in the World Cup.However, the celebrations did not last a minute.SEE:Just 61 seconds after the restart, Belgium restored their advantage when De Ketelaere headed home his second goal of the evening, denying the home team a second chance.
Belgium punishes America’s biggest mistakes
Belgium’s advantage and performance ultimately proved too much for the hosts.The Red Devils took the lead early in the second half after a costly error from goalkeeper Matt Freese. Attempting to control a long ball, Freese hesitated before unwittingly flicking the ball against De Ketelaere, allowing Vanaken to score from distance after the rebound fell sweetly.Belgium continued to command the action even as the United States introduced new offensive tactics.Romelu Lukaku, who scored in the 67th minute, added a late winner after capitalizing on a Chris Richards miscue to score his third goal in as many World Cup games.The loss means the United States have now been eliminated in the Round of 16 in seven of their last seven World Cup appearances, including each of their last four.