De Ketelaere Scores Twice as Belgium Lead USA 2–1 at Half-Time

Dragon Media News Desk

Belgium held an exciting 2–1 lead over the United States at half-time in their highly competitive FIFA World Cup 2026 round-of-16 encounter. Young striker Charles De Ketelaere scored twice to put the Belgian side in a strong position.

Belgium took the lead in the ninth minute when De Ketelaere converted a pass from Nicolas Raskin to make it 1–0.

The United States responded by increasing the pressure and playing more aggressively. Malik Tillman equalised in the 31st minute, bringing the score level at 1–1.

However, the American celebrations lasted less than two minutes. In the 33rd minute, De Ketelaere met an excellent cross from Leandro Trossard and scored his second goal of the match, restoring Belgium’s lead at 2–1.

Both teams produced fast-paced and attacking football during an entertaining first half, but Belgium were more clinical in front of goal and went into the interval with a one-goal advantage.