The United States will field the same starting eleven that faced Bosnia in their previous group encounter, a decision made by head coach Mauricio Pochettino to maintain continuity after a solid defensive performance. The lineup includes goalkeeper Matt Freese, right back Sergino Dest, central defenders Chris Richards and Tyler Adams, left back Antonee Robinson, and a midfield anchored by Weston McKennie and veteran Tim Ream. In attack, Christian Pulisic will operate alongside Malik Tillman, while Folarin Balogun, the team's leading scorer with three tournament goals, will lead the line.
Starting XI for the United States
The United States will field a back line of Matt Freese in goal, Sergino Dest at right back, Chris Richards and Tyler Adams in central defense, Antonee Robinson on the left, with Weston McKennie and Tim Ream in midfield, while Christian Pulisic and Malik Tillman support the attack, and Folarin Balogun leading the line. This formation seeks to balance defensive stability with the creative spark needed to break down a disciplined Belgian side.
Belgium's Tactical Choices
Belgium will start with Thibaut Courtois between the posts, a back four of Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper, Leandro Trossard and Timothy Castagne, and a midfield featuring Youri Tielemans, Amadou Onana and Dodi Lukebakio. Up front, Romelu Lukaku will be supported by Charles De Ketelaere and Nathan Ngoy, while Jeremy Doku and Nathan Ngoy will look to add width. Notably, Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Jeremy Doku are listed among the substitutes, indicating a deep bench of experienced talent ready to be introduced if the match demands a change in tempo.
The inclusion of Balogun, who was originally suspended after receiving a red card in an earlier match, adds a new dimension to the U.S. attack. His pace and finishing ability could stretch Belgium's defensive lines, while his partnership with Pulisic may create the kind of fluid movement that has characterized the American side throughout the tournament. Coach Pochettino emphasized that the team's focus remains on executing the game plan they have rehearsed, rather than being distracted by the lineup changes.
Both teams enter the match with distinct objectives: the United States aims to capitalize on its cohesive unit and the fresh attacking option presented by Balogun, while Belgium hopes to leverage its deep squad depth and the experience of players like De Bruyne and Lukaku to control the midfield and exploit set‑piece opportunities. The outcome will likely hinge on how effectively each side can adapt to the tactical nuances introduced by their respective lineups.