A horrific keeper blunder and a 96-year curse crash the party as Belgium ends the USA's World Cup dream.
The 96-year jinx is alive and well. The USMNT dream is dead in Seattle.
ACT I · 9' — 33'
struck early, but briefly sent Seattle into ecstasy with an equalizer. Just 116 seconds later, De Ketelaere struck again.
57' · THE KEEPER BLUNDER
rushes out of his box and completely misses his clearance, allowing to gift-wrap a tap-in for .
ACT II · 90+3'
came off the bench to put the final nail in the co-hosts' coffin in stoppage time.
Before kickoff we asked: “Can America's talisman find a way past the giant of Madrid to secure a historic quarterfinal spot?”
and both had quiet nights before Pulisic went off injured. Neither talisman could claim bragging rights in a flat battle.
It didn't affect our performance. It's not an excuse... I feel disappointed with too many people. They put , talk about ethics and integrity [first].
Mauricio Pochettino · USA · Head coach · BBC
The full presser
I accepted the decision when I was given the red card, and I accepted the decision when I was told I was allowed to play. I didn't have any involvement in the process...
· USA · Striker · WRAL
He came to talk to me, I really liked that. It's not his fault, he's not the one to blame, I told him that. I appreciate the intention of him speaking to me.
Rudi Garcia · Belgium · Head coach · Bolavip
WHERE THIS GOES
Belgium marches on to the Quarter-finals to face Spain. For the USA, the wait to reach the final eight goes on.