Belgium will take on the United States in a crucial last-16 match of the World Cup on Monday in Seattle. The Belgian players, undeterred by the expected pro-US crowd, stress the importance of playing their game despite the atmosphere. Left-back Maxim De Cuyper stated, “I think we just have to … show balls on the pitch.”
Belgium's Strategy Against US Crowd
The Red Devils are prepared to face a raucous crowd of approximately 80,000 supporters in Seattle, where the US has thrived during the tournament. Belgium's full-back Timothy Castagne commented on the pressure the home crowd can exert, noting, “As soon as it turns a little less good for them, [the crowd] can also turn against them.”
With a recent history of strong performances against the US, including a 5-2 victory in March, De Cuyper emphasized the need to focus on their own performance. “We play and we don’t hear what’s going on around the pitch,” he remarked, highlighting their intent to remain in their own “bubble.”
Impact of Player Absences
The US team will be without key striker Folarin Balogun, who is suspended due to a controversial red card received in a previous match. This absence poses a challenge for the American side, as Balogun has been a critical player throughout the tournament.
