USA vs. Belgium World Cup prediction: Odds, picks, best bet as United States tries to punch ticket to quarterfinals

The United States booked its place in the Round of 16 and now faces Belgium in Seattle after beating Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0, setting up a Monday night clash with a quarterfinal spot at stake. The article notes it was not the U.S. at its “A game,” but the win marked the first U.S. Men’s National Team knockout triumph at a World Cup in 24 years. It contrasts the Americans’ performance with Belgium’s path, arguing the Red Devils have struggled to “cover” in previous matches and required late swings, including a 5-1 win over New Zealand to top Group G. Belgium’s difficulty is highlighted by the 1-1 draw vs Egypt and a 0-0 draw vs Iran. The piece emphasizes U.S. scoring versatility and cites an expected-goals mismatch from a separate Senegal–Belgium game. It also mentions Folarin Balogun’s suspension being lifted, boosting the U.S. attacking options.