Belgium storm back to beat USA 5-2 in Atlanta, exposing defensive flaws ahead of the World Cup as co-hosts face growing concerns.
Belgium produced a commanding second-half display to defeat the United States 5-2 in an international friendly in Atlanta. The result raised fresh concerns for the World Cup co-hosts ahead of the summer tournament. The Americans started brightly and even took the lead, but defensive issues quickly surfaced. Belgium capitalised ruthlessly to turn the contest into a one-sided affair after the break.
The United States began with intent and energy in front of a lively home crowd. Their pressure paid off in the 39th minute when Weston McKennie guided in a close-range finish from a corner. It was a deserved reward for a disciplined first-half showing.
Belgium, however, responded just before the interval with a moment of quality. Zeno Debast struck from distance after a partial clearance, catching the goalkeeper off guard. The equaliser shifted momentum heading into the second half.
The hosts had a chance to regain control early after the restart. But missed opportunities proved costly as Belgium grew sharper in attack. Their composure began to stretch the American defence.
Belgium took the lead in the 53rd minute through Amadou Onana, who finished calmly after a well-worked move. The visitors were now firmly in control and dictating the tempo. Six minutes later, Charles De Ketelaere converted from the penalty spot after a handball decision. The goal made it 3-1 and left the United States chasing the game.
Substitute Dodi Lukebakio then made an immediate impact. He curled in a superb effort in the 68th minute before adding another late on. His brace underlined Belgium’s attacking depth and sharpness.
The United States managed a late consolation through Patrick Agyemang in the 87th minute. It came after a defensive lapse, but it did little to change the overall picture.
Belgium dominated the attacking metrics as the game progressed. They registered 21 shots, with 10 on target, and created chances worth 2.69 expected goals while the USMNT produced 1.62 xG. Their efficiency in front of goal proved decisive.
The United States struggled to cope with Belgium’s wide play. Their defensive structure often collapsed under pressure, especially in one-on-one situations. The flanks were a consistent area of weakness throughout the second half.
Despite scoring first, the Americans failed to maintain control. It marked one of their heaviest defeats after leading in a match in decades. The result ended their recent unbeaten run and highlighted clear vulnerabilities.
Jeremy Doku was central to Belgium’s dominance despite not scoring. His dribbling caused constant problems and helped create multiple chances. He stretched the defence and opened space for teammates.
Lukebakio’s cameo stood out as a game-changing contribution. His two goals came at crucial moments and effectively ended the contest. Onana and De Ketelaere also impressed with composed finishes.
For the United States, McKennie was a bright spot with his goal and work rate. However, defensive lapses from experienced players proved costly. The team struggled to recover once momentum shifted.
Belgium remain in the United States and will face Mexico in another friendly in Chicago. The match offers another opportunity to fine-tune preparations ahead of the World Cup. The United States will look to respond when they take on Portugal next. With the tournament approaching, improvements are urgently needed. Defensive organisation and consistency remain key concerns.
This result serves as a timely warning for the co-hosts. Stronger opposition will expose similar weaknesses if they are not addressed quickly.
